Getting re-acquainted with my Ruger New Vaquero

[sigp220.45]

I got this Ruger New Vaquero .45 Colt a few years ago. I didn't shoot it much, but I treated it to a set of no-bark Executioner stags.



I own two of the bigger frame Vaqueros - a stainless convertible .45 and a long barreled .44 Magnum. I shoot the convertible with ACPs regularly, but it is a chunky beast. This guy is downright svelte in comparison.

The New Vaquero is on a smaller frame, and is almost identical in size to a Colt SAA. Here it is with my 1916 beater.



They fit the same holsters. Obviously they function differently, but to my uneducated hand they feel very much the same.




Mine has the color case finish. Its not real color case hardening, and I hear it can wear off, but mine still looks ok.



I'd be interested to hear from other fans, especially anyone who has seen significant wear to the color case finish. Also, I'm going to start reloading .45 Colts, and I understand this smaller framed gun should just be fed SAA level loads. True?

I had it at the range today with my small supply of factory ammo, and it handled and shot well.

 

[BigMuddy]

Great gun! Look at some of the load data Brian Pearce has published in Handloader. He suggests, and I agree, that these guns can be safely loaded to 23,000 psi. Standard 45 Colt is maxed at 14K. I usually keep mine more in the 20K range and it is really all the power I need. I did have to open my chamber throats to .4525 as many others have done.

Mine too has the case color finish. I don't use mine enough for it to show much wear. I have an older Vaquero full size frame from '93 and the finish is now a dull gray. Looks worn....which it is so that's ok with me. I don't allow any rust on my guns but good honest wear makes them better in my eyes.

I like your grips too. I've got a set that look very similar on my Colt 44 Special. Patrick does good work.

I'm glad you have decided to enjoy your fine sixgun.

Dan

 

[vonn]

I have an old stainless polished Vaquero that is very accurate but have never fired a new model is it that much different/better?

 

[eveled]

It's not a week gun, just can't handle the Ruger only loads, that the large frame can. I use .45acp +p loads as a safe limit, which is the 23,000psi BigMuddy mentioned

Mine is built on the same size frame, but it is a flattop Blackhawk convertible.