Vaquero question?

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Bearcat
Joined
Sep 25, 2012
Messages
96
Just by looking at the pistol or it's box, how can I tell the original Vaquero from the New Vaquero? I'm looking to find the original, for higher pressure loads... I want an original in stainless 45lc.
 
Yes. It's on the Left side of the frame, just below the cylinder window.

Best Regards,
ADP3
 
Yes, it will say so on the 'left' side of the frame as if you were holding the revolver by the grip with the barrel pointed away from you in a safe direction. The exception so far are those chambered for 44 Special that say "Ruger Vaquero" on the frame but are built on the medium frame like the rest of the "New Vaquero"s, but you are looking for a 45 Colt so that's not important.
Also, the serial number of the older larger sized "Vaquero" will be on the 'right' side of the frame and will begin with a two digit serial number from 55 to 58 with a dash and five additional numbers. The serial number will also be on the sticky label on the end of the grey plastic box.
The "New Vaquero" revolvers serial numbers begin with three digits from 510 to 511 so far.
I hope you find what you're looking for.
Tim
 
Yep, serial# is the easy way. With the naming confusion well.... Best to stick with the serial number.

XXX-yyyyy New Vaquero (Medium Frame)
XX-yyyyy original Vaquero (Large Frame)

Good luck on your search... And remember even if the New Vaquero can handle 'potent' loads for most game in the lower 48. I certainly don't feel under-gunned with a medium frame .45 Colt revolver on my hip.
 
This is best for my tiny little brain...


XXX-yyyyy New Vaquero (Medium Frame)
XX-yyyyy original Vaquero (Large Frame)
 
Rclark said:
Yep, serial# is the easy way. With the naming confusion well.... Best to stick with the serial number.

XXX-yyyyy New Vaquero (Medium Frame)
XX-yyyyy original Vaquero (Large Frame)

Good luck on your search... And remember even if the New Vaquero can handle 'potent' loads for most game in the lower 48. I certainly don't feel under-gunned with a medium frame .45 Colt revolver on my hip.

This is what I use. Serial numbers make it easy.
 
Bought one. Thanks again for the info. Bisley 5.5 inch. SN is 56-####

pix738878978_zpsgk7gsuen.jpg
 
That is a beauty!
We know there is no "old model" Vaquero! Some people do not. Check this--- http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ruger-Vaquero-grip-frame-Aluminum-/121295836099?pt=Vintage_Hunting&hash=item1c3dcb93c3 grip frame. :lol:
 
There really should have been a new name with the new pistol. I was seriously confused until I asked here. Seems silly to keep the name, considering the difference in strength, and therefore, safety.
 
There really should have been a new name with the new pistol.
You won't find any arguments here!! Still if they had just stayed with the original Vaquero and New Vaquero we still would be 'ok' with it as we could still keep 'em straight. But no ....they had to bring out the .44 Special New Vaquero with just Vaquero stamped on the side, and of course now Ruger just talks about the Vaquero when referring to the New Vaquero. Gottta love it. :oops:

Nice revolver!
 
Nice!! You will love how the Bisley grip feels! I really like mine in .357mag! :arrow:
LbMEYaC.jpg
 
I got out to the range today. I really am happy with my purchase. The front sight needs about 1/16 filed down, but that's a good thing. Left and right are fine.

The 250 grain cowboy loads are great fun. The 225 grain PDX are good too. The 360 grain Doubletap +P was really impressive.

Love this new pistol. Thanks again for the guidance. Turned out GREAT!
 
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