The title sort of gave it away. I decided to build a Super Vaquero. My hands are just way too big for the smaller grip frame on a .45. My New Vaquero is polished stainless and I didn't want to lose the "bling". So when Midway had free shipping I ordered a Super Blackhawk Hunter grip frame in stainless. I spent yesterday afternoon fitting it. Those factory Ruger parts frames are ROUGH! Lots of sanding both power and by hand rendered a good fit. I also took the bottom front corner back a bit- sort of a nod to a Bisley front strap. I spent this morning polishing with my benchtop unit and a Dremel. It came out great! I put a Super hammer in and installed a set of Super grips I had. In case anyone else tries this- the hammer back on the New Vaquero is fatter than a Super hammer, And it will bind up when the Super frame is installed. Also, the Ruger parts frame is larger than the factory grips. Bonus in my opinion. Lastly- the Super frame does not have the little slot that locates the NV retractable pawl. I got lucky and got it ground out- if that had failed a Power Custom pawl would work- probably better.
I've attached a couple pictures. I still need to polish out the hammer, and send the grip frame to Chig's where I have a beautiful set of panels waiting.
The last pic shows how I brought the bottom corner of the front strap in a bit. Feels much better to me.
I've attached a couple pictures. I still need to polish out the hammer, and send the grip frame to Chig's where I have a beautiful set of panels waiting.
The last pic shows how I brought the bottom corner of the front strap in a bit. Feels much better to me.