Unveiling the Beauty: Heritage Birdshead Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Heritage Rough Rider
3. The Bird's Head Grip Frame
4. Comparing the Bird's Head Grip to the Standard Square Butt Grip
5. Other Grip Options for the Rough Rider
6. Different Barrel Lengths Available for the Rough Rider
7. The Heritage Bar Keep
8. Accessories Available for the Rough Rider
9. Cleaning and Maintenance
10. Shooting and Accuracy
11. Pros and Cons of the Heritage Rough Rider

The Heritage Rough Rider: A Classic Single-Action Revolver

The Heritage Rough Rider is a popular choice for those seeking a classic single-action revolver. With its Timeless design and versatility, it has gained a strong following among gun enthusiasts. One key feature that sets it apart is the option to choose a bird's head grip frame, which provides a more comfortable and secure hold. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Heritage Rough Rider, from its grip options to its performance on the range.

The Heritage Rough Rider

The Heritage Rough Rider is a single-action revolver chambered in .22 Long Rifle or .22 Magnum. It is widely regarded as an excellent first gun due to its manageable recoil and affordable price. The revolver features a solid construction with a steel barrel and cylinder, while the grip frame is made of Durable materials such as zinc alloy. Despite its budget-friendly nature, the Rough Rider offers good build quality and reliability.

The Bird's Head Grip Frame

One standout feature of the Heritage Rough Rider is the bird's head grip frame. The bird's head grip provides a more ergonomic and comfortable grip compared to the standard square butt grip. It is slightly slimmer, allowing for a trimmer feel in the HAND. This contributes to better control and accuracy when shooting. While the square butt grip is practical and classic in its own right, the bird's head grip offers a unique and stylish alternative.

Comparing the Bird's Head Grip to the Standard Square Butt Grip

The choice between the bird's head grip and the standard square butt grip ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some shooters may prefer the traditional look and feel of the square butt grip, while others may find the bird's head grip more comfortable and visually appealing. It's worth noting that both grip frames are interchangeable on the Heritage Rough Rider, allowing shooters to switch between the two Based on their preferences.

Other Grip Options for the Rough Rider

In addition to the bird's head grip frame and the standard square butt grip, there are other grip options available for the Heritage Rough Rider. For those who desire a higher grip, similar to a Bisley-style grip, aftermarket grips can be purchased to achieve this. These grips cut higher and offer a more narrow square butt, providing a different shooting experience. However, it's important to note that modifying the original grip frame may void the warranty, so caution should be exercised.

Different Barrel Lengths Available for the Rough Rider

The Heritage Rough Rider comes in various barrel lengths, allowing shooters to choose the one that best suits their needs. The most common lengths include 4 and 3/4 inches, 6 and 1/2 inches, and 16 inches. Each length offers a different shooting experience, with the longer barrels providing improved accuracy and sight radius. Recently, Heritage introduced the Bar Keep model with a 2-inch barrel, catering to those who prefer a more compact and easily concealable revolver.

The Heritage Bar Keep

The Heritage Bar Keep is a new addition to the Rough Rider lineup. This model features a 2-inch barrel, making it ideal for concealed carry or as a backup weapon. The Bar Keep retains the classic single-action design of the Rough Rider, but with the added benefit of a shorter barrel length. It offers a balance between portability and shootability, making it a viable option for those who value both compactness and performance.

Accessories Available for the Rough Rider

Heritage offers a range of accessories for the Rough Rider, allowing shooters to customize their revolver according to their preferences. These accessories include gun belts, holsters, and various types of holsters like left-handed, right-handed, and cross-draw holsters. One popular accessory is the Mexican double loop holster, which combines functionality and style. While Heritage's Website may experience occasional shortages in stock, there are other options available from third-party sellers.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The Rough Rider is a relatively simple revolver to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity. To clean the revolver, it can be disassembled by removing the base Pin and cylinder. Each chamber should be cleaned individually, and a light spray of lubricant can be applied to the internals for smooth operation. Additionally, Attention should be given to the front sights, which can be painted for better visibility in low light conditions.

Shooting and Accuracy

When it comes to shooting and accuracy, the Heritage Rough Rider excels as a plinking gun or a beginner's firearm. The .22 caliber chambering provides manageable recoil, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels. However, the fixed sights on the Rough Rider can pose a challenge if the gun does not shoot to point of aim. Corrections need to be made by consciously adjusting the aim to compensate for any deviations. This may require some trial and error to determine the exact holdover required for proper accuracy.

Pros and Cons of the Heritage Rough Rider

While the Heritage Rough Rider offers numerous benefits, it's essential to consider both the pros and cons before making a purchasing decision.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Classic single-action design
• Comfortable bird's head grip frame available
• Interchangeable grip frames
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Reliable performance with minimal recoil

Cons:

• Fixed sights may require adjustments for accuracy
• Limited aftermarket support for grip options
• Limited barrel lengths in the original lineup
• Some accessories may face availability issues

In conclusion, the Heritage Rough Rider is a versatile and affordable revolver that captures the essence of classic single-action firearms. Whether You prefer the bird's head grip frame or the traditional square butt grip, the Rough Rider offers a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience. With options for different barrel lengths and a growing lineup of accessories, it remains a popular choice among shooters seeking a quality .22 caliber revolver.