Old versus New XR3 Grip Frames

[ChuckS1]

Are grips designed for the original XR3 (1953-1962) interchangeable with the new XR3 frames that are on the new Vaquero?

 

[BamaGreg]

I'm pretty sure they are not

 

[Piranha451]

They may not be interchangeable based on this notation for the 2004/2005 change on https://gunblast.com/Hamm_Ruger-SA-GripFrames.htm

The NEW XR3 style grip frame is very similar to the original Ruger Single Action, Colt SAA style, introduced in 1953. The grip panel locator pin is in a slightly different location from the original, primarily due to the new internal safety lock mechanism. These frames are found on the smaller cylinder framed "New" Vaquero (2004) and the 50th Anniversary .357 Blackhawk "Flattop" (2005). They are also found on the larger cylinder frame 50th Anniversary .44 "Flattop" (2006).​

Steel/blued or stainless. The interior design accommodates the new internal safety lock mechanism.​

"New" Vaquero – Black hard rubber checkered panels with the Ruger trademark Eagle logo molded into the panel. 50th Anniversary Blackhawk "Flattops" – Black hard rubber checkered panels with the old style post 1966 – 1971 "fat neck" trademark black eagle on silver medallions.​

Current production​

 

[rugerguy]

we have swapped them from time to time and I say you can "modify"( alter) the newer XR3 grips by notching them at the top and to slightly , elongate the locating pin hole on the newer grips, please do NOT ruin a pair of old model XR-3 grips in this manner , obviously the notch is NOT needed ,BUT elongating the hole, boogers the old ones up, and may be sloppy, loose when putting them BACK onto the older XR-3 frame...../../the newer grip frames have no "boss (support) in the upper ,top front area of the frame where it meets the cylinder frame.........
so that being said, I did the NEW grips to fit older guns, but have not gone the other way,,,,,,,,yet ,,,,,,,,,no need or want to........

 

[ChuckS1]

No plans to modify any grips. It was just a question on interchangeability. Thanks, all, for the info!