My dad passed in 2016 (class of '68). He had several guns that were passed to me.

Recently, I cleaned out my storage unit and found some of his old files/documents. Dad never threw anything away!

I remember him telling me the story of how he purchased the M1 carbine….but pretty cool to actually have the article and receipt to go along with the story! An M1 carbine for $17.50…??!!

He taught me how to break that rifle down. I used to love to do that with him. And what a fun gun to shoot!

And the receipt for the Ruger Blackhawk. First hand gun I ever fired. I think I was around 9 and I remember him saying "it's gonna kick, so hold it tight and guide it to the side of your head so it doesn't come back and split your skull". Obviously it didn't kick that much….but I remember reconsidering whether or not II wanted to shoot it!

That is outstanding! It's cool that you have the memories of your dad. My dad passed in 1994 so feel your pain. Thanks for sharing this so much. There is something unexplainable about the connection you can have with your dad through those firearms.
His hands held them both…..that's real memories. The words he said that you remember with those firearms part of the moment….that's real.
Hold on to those firearms and his words and memories and the happy times you shared.
Again. Thank you for posting.

Too bad they didn't record the year on the date of the Blackhawk receipt. But I have this print ad from 1963 showing the same $87.50 ask. I have to say, a $20 discount is impressive.

I have several of these ads displayed in my shop for Ruger single actions from the 1950's to 80's.

Note the obvious typo- "SHOWN WITH 4-5/8" BARREL". It is clearly a 6-1/2" barrel as is yours.

It's close. The damn "Gun Control Act" started requiring 4473's in 1968.
And…..what real good did it do except cause law abiding citizens more grief.