RUGER VAQUERO

Posted Jun 14, 2023

The Ruger Vaquero is an iconic single-action revolver created by Ruger in the 1970s. The Ruger Vaquero is a modern version of the classic “Peacemaker” Wild West six-shooter, boasting a comfortable grip, the option for a steel frame or a polymer frame, and the choice of several popular calibers. The Ruger Vaquero is one of the most popular handguns among recreational shooters and firearm collectors, and is a popular choice among Cowboy Action Shooting enthusiasts as well.

When first released in 1973, the Ruger Vaquero featured a steel frame and a walnut grip. Over the years, Ruger has expanded on the original design, releasing blued and stainless versions of the gun. The current models of the Ruger Vaquero feature a new and improved frame design with a polymer grip that is modeled after the classic “Peacemaker”. The Ruger Vaquero also now comes in several popular calibers such as .45 Long Colt, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum.

The Ruger Vaquero is a unique piece of craftsmanship and engineering, combining classic styling with modern features. The Vaquero features a fixed sight system, with a blade front sight and an adjustable notch rear sight. This arrangement allows the shooter to adjust the rear sight for elevation and windage, and the front sight is easy to align with the rear sights when shooting. The Vaquero's square frame design and large cylinder make it easy to reload quickly and safely: its larger-than-usual cylinder allows for quicker reloads, while the square frame ensures that you can quickly and safely remove spent cartridges.

The Ruger Vaquero is extremely well made and reliable, with a lockwork that is reliable and smooth. The action of the Vaquero is based upon the classic single-action revolver design, but Ruger has made some modern improvements. The most important of these is the transfer bar safety system, which prevents the hammer of the revolver from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is pressed. This safety feature greatly improves the safety of the Ruger Vaquero, making it suitable for use even when carrying it loaded.

If you’re looking for an iconic, reliable, and affordable single-action revolver, the Ruger Vaquero is an excellent option. The classic design, rugged construction, reliable action, and modern safety features make it an ideal revolver for both recreational shooting and personal protection. In addition, the Ruger Vaquero’s adjustable sights and excellent accuracy make it a great choice for Cowboy Action Shooting competitions.

For those who are looking for a gun that looks and feels like a classic Wild West six-shooter but with modern features and construction, the Ruger Vaquero is an excellent choice. The Vaquero is one of the most popular handguns in production today, and for good reason: it is reliable, accurate, and built with Ruger’s trademark quality and attention to detail. Whether you’re shooting paper targets, participating in Cowboy Action Shoots, or carrying concealed, the Ruger Vaquero is sure to be a great addition to your gun collection.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Easy to carry: The Vaquero is much lighter and compact compared to most other revolvers. This makes it easier to carry and also can be concealed better for self-defense purposes.

Reliable: The Ruger Vaquero has a reliable and robust design that makes it a pleasure to use. It is very powerful and resistant to abuse.

Customizable: One can customize the Vaquero by adjusting rear sight, trigger pull weight, and even by replacing the cylinder with an optional conversion cylinder that allows it to fire .357 Magnum and .45 ACP rounds.

High Velocity: The Vaquero is capable of firing very quick and at a higher velocity than most other revolvers, making it great for competition shooting or any other rapid-firing use.

Cons:

Expensive: The Ruger Vaquero is more expensive than many other revolvers, making it not the best choice for budget-minded shooters.

Limited Capacity: The Vaquero can only hold six rounds, which is fewer than many other revolvers in the same price range.

Low Capacity Magazines: The optional factory magazines are limited to five rounds, and higher capacity mags are not available on the market.

Who Should Buy

Anyone who is looking for a reliable and accurate single-action handgun should consider purchasing the Ruger Vaquero. This gun is especially suited to individuals wanting to target shoot, and it is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a gun for hunting or self-defense. People who would not be well suited to this pistol include those who are uncomfortable with recoil and the manual operation of a single-action handgun.

Comparisons

Specification	RUGER VAQUERO	SMITH & WESSON 686-4	SMITH & WESSON MODEL 57	SMITH & WESSON 360PD AIRLITE
Caliber	.45 Colt	.357 Magnum	.41 Magnum	.38 S&W Special +P
Action	Single Action	Double Action	Double Action	Double Action
Barrel Length	4.625”	4”	6”	1.875”
Weight	2.65 lbs	2.5 lbs	3.6 lbs	13.3 oz
Grip	Walnut	Walnut	Checkered Walnut	Synthetic

Features / Specs

• Caliber: Wide range of offerings including .22 LR, .22 Magnum, .357 Magnum, .38-40, .44-40, .44 Magnum, & .45 Colt

• Capacity: 6-round cylinder

• Barrel Length: 3.75", 4.625", 5.5", or 7.5"

• Length: 9.5" (with 3.75" barrel) - 13.5" (with 7.5" barrel)

• Height: 5.5"

• Width: 1.5"

• Weight: Approx. 40 - 43 ounces (varies slightly by barrel length)

• Stocks: Black checkered synthetic/simulated ivory or fancy wood (varies by model)

• Sights: Traditional fixed, adjustable targets (varies by model)

• Finish: Blued, or high polished stainless

Popular Accessories

The most popular accessories for Ruger Vaquero 45 handguns include holsters, grips, sights, lasers, flashlights, triggers, magazines, compensators, and suppressors.

Accuracy

The Ruger Vaquero is generally known as an incredibly accurate handgun. It is capable of producing tight groups of up to one inch at distances of twenty-five yards. With an adjustable rear sight, users can quickly make adjustments to their point of aim. Furthermore, its crisp trigger trigger pull make precision shots easy, even for the novice shooter. Numerous users have found the Ruger Vaquero to be significantly more accurate and reliable than other similar revolvers. All in all, the Ruger Vaquero is a great choice for shooters looking for accuracy and affordability in a handgun.