The Ruger New Model action is a safe one but is uncomfortable for those who are used to the Old Model Action or to the Colt SAA. The trigger sets fairly far forward in the trigger guard and is curved enough that it sometimes "bites" the trigger finger. The lack of a half-cock notch is something that is missed by many shooters. This Ruger .44 Magnum is a fine handgun, but notice how far forward the trigger is in the triggerguard compared to our conversion below.

The addition of a half-cock in conjunction with straightening the trigger makes this handgun much more confortable to use, especially with heavy-recoiling loads.

Having a half-cock notch also means that the chambers line up with the loading port when you hear the "click" as you roll the cylinder around. On a New Model Ruger with the loading gate open, when you roll the cylinder until you hear it "click" the chambers are not in line with the loading port. The addition of a half-cock ensures that they are.

The Alpha Precision, Inc. Custom Half-cock Conversion is shown superimposed on top of a standard Ruger New Model. Notice the difference between the triggers and how they are positioned in the trigger guard.

The hammer standing at half-cock on the Ruger New Model. The Alpha Precision, Inc. Conversion results in easier handling.

• Half-cock notch
• Chambers line up with loading port at the "click"
  
• Increased room in the trigger guard
  
• The transfer-bar safety system is still in place
  
• Opening the loading gate with the hammer down still unlatches the cylinder