Vaquero Small or Large frame? SN 58-08777

[Dantforth]

I have been offered a Vaquero, BNV45, non adjustable sights, 7 1/2 inch barrel with case frame and rosewood grips. I have beaten my Reference to death. It just looks like a large frame to me. Is it the early model or late....large or small frame? It hasn't seen much use. How many of this model were made? With box and all papers what would be a fair value for a 95% example? I searched here and was more confused. David

 

[street]

With the 2 digit prefix serial number, it is the large frame, original first model Vaquero. It is not the "NEW VAQUERO". Check some of the online auctions to see what they are selling for. Production started in 1993 at serial number 55-00001 and ended at 58-99162, or there abouts. Your gun was shipped around 2002

 

[jazzman]

I am looking at the same gun original vaquero, 7.5 " with case colored frame with box, early model. I can get it for 500 plus tax, not the best price but the gun is nice andI will probably pick it up. This one is 45 Colt

Jim

 

[Bear Paw Jack]

Dantforth, caliber would help. There were various number productions depending on caliber. Goes by Caliber,and then barrel length as to production numbers. Nobody knows the exact numbers but I think it's fair to say several people have a pretty good idea given the other information.

 

[Terry T]

It's generally agreed that the 7 1/2" barrel is the least common barrel length. .45 LC may be the most common cal. in the longer barrel followed by .44 mag and then 44-40 (less than 10%). I don't believe the .357 mag was offered in the 7 1/2" (should check my book rather than relying on memory :oops: ).
Terry T

 

[Dantforth]

Thanks for the information. I am happy it is the larger frame. I don't particularly like the colour case hardened frame. It just doesn't look like other case hardening I have seen. I take it that this will not have a safety transfer bar system? Thanks again. Dave

 

[princeout]

Dave,
It will have the transfer bar system. All Vaqueros are New Model Rugers and have the transfer bar. A two digit prefix will be an original Vaquero (New Model), large frame. A three digit prefix will be a New Vaquero (New Model), medium frame. All Ruger Single actions since 1973 or so have the transfer bar. The naming convention for the Vaquero/New Vaquero is confusing on first glance.
Tim

 

[Kanook]

I had one when they first came out. 8 grains of Unique and a 255 wheel weight was the right load for mine. Sold it to fund Dr. bills :(

 

[fbks ak]

Thanks for all the info on the original vaquero. I just picked one
up. 45cal 7 1/2 in barrel ss great lucking gun.will get out to the
range when it gets a little warmer' Sorry but at 80 yrs old don't
know how to post pics and 2 old to learn. Love the forum and learn
lots. Tom

 

[Dantforth]

Well, at eighty years young it is just great that you use your computer and join us here. Yes, much information and top notch folks to give their time and knowledge to help. I am downsizing due to my age but I just cannot seem to shake my addiction to Ruger revolvers. Enjoy this special place. David