Bowen Classic Arms
Bowen Classic Arms builds revolvers that shooters actually write about. Located in Oregon, this gunsmithing workshop specializes in custom revolver projects that range from straightforward conversions to ambitious restoration efforts and one-off builds that push what's possible with Ruger and Colt p...
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Bowen Classic Arms builds revolvers that shooters actually write about. Located in Oregon, this gunsmithing workshop specializes in custom revolver projects that range from straightforward conversions to ambitious restoration efforts and one-off builds that push what's possible with Ruger and Colt platforms.
This isn't a retail gun store. Bowen does gunsmithing—the intricate, technical work of modifying and customizing revolvers. Most projects are customer-owned guns, though they occasionally complete pieces for inventory and feature them on the site.
Single-Action Conversions & Builds: - Ruger Single-Six flat tops with custom barrels and sights - Custom Ruger Bisley models with S&W-pattern barrels - Vintage-style .45 Colt conversions starting from beater guns - Lightweight builds using aluminum frames and titanium components - Scalloped receivers and loading gates - Keith No. 5-style Ruger Blackhawks
Double-Action Work: - Anaconda and Python barrel installations on Ruger Redhawks and GP100s - Custom S&W-pattern barrels on Redhawk platforms - Super Redhawk modifications and conversions - GP100 to Python barrel conversions
Specialized Services: - Barrel installations and custom barrel work - Receiver modifications (flat topping, scalloping) - Sight work (dovetail sights, adjustable target sights, windage-adjustable rear sights) - Cylinder conversions and re-chambering - Finish work including Turnbull coloring and hot-salt bluing - Custom grip fitting and installation - Tune and timing work - Extended firing pins and precision fitting
Featured in Classic Arms Journal and referenced in books like The Custom Revolver, Bowen's work represents a level of precision gunsmithing that's increasingly rare.
Barrel Work: They machine custom barrels—octagonal barrels with grooved top flats, S&W-pattern barrels for single-action guns, L-frame conversions, SP-style barrels, and ovate-form barrels. They've also adapted Colt Anaconda and Python barrels to Ruger platforms, a conversion that requires precision machine work to mate properly.
Finishing Options: Beyond traditional bluing and nitering, they work with specialty finishes like PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coatings for durable, scratch-resistant results. They partner with Turnbull Manufacturing for professional coloring work.
Engraving & Details: For the premium builds, they collaborate with master engravers like Jesse Kaufman of Black Hills Gunstocks and Engraving, and source custom grips from craftspeople like Rob Rowen (fancy French walnut) and Scott Kolar (bird's eye maple).
Recent projects include an extensively engraved Ruger Single-Six with gold work by Jesse Kaufman, multiple lightweight single-sixes with aluminum and titanium components, a custom .500 Ruger Redhawk with SP-style barrel, and matched pairs of vintage-style .45 Colt flat-tops. Each project is documented and featured on their site with detailed photos and specifications.
Specialties by Gun Type:
| Ruger Platform | Custom Options |
|---|---|
| Single-Six (all variants) | Flat top conversion, custom barrels, ovate barrels, scalloped receivers |
| Bisley models | S&W-pattern barrels, custom sights, lightweight builds |
| Redhawk/Super Redhawk | Anaconda/Python barrel conversions, S&W-pattern barrels, caliber conversions |
| GP100 | Python barrel installations, re-boring for larger calibers |
Colt Work: USFA Flat Top Target builds with Colt New Service-style windage-adjustable sights, vintage SAA restorations, and period-correct detail work.
Most guns are customer-owned projects. Send yours in, discuss specifications, and they'll build it to your specs. They maintain a workshop where projects are completed, photographed, and documented. Turnaround depends on project complexity and current workload.
They publish detailed writeups of completed builds on their website, including photos, specifications, and notes on techniques used. This gives you a clear sense of their capabilities before contacting them.
They source quality components including Douglas barrels for rimfire work, Power Custom grip frames and hammers, and collaborate with recognized finishing shops like Turnbull Manufacturing. They've also worked with custom barrel suppliers like PAC-NOR Barreling.
- •Important Note: Supply of some components (like Anaconda and Python barrels) is limited, making certain conversions available only when materials are in stock. Contact them for current availability on specific projects.