Modified My Vaquero

[AJ]

I picked up a Ruger Vaquero with a Birds Head grip and a 3 1/5 inch barrel in .45 Colt. After shooting it I decided the grips was not large enough to give me good control of the revolver under recoil. I discussed changing the grip to a "Plow Handle" type grip frame. While discussing the why's and how's, a fine gentleman on another forum offered me a new grip frame. He mailed it to me without recompense. I removed the Birds Head grip frame and installed the Plow Handle. I am happy with the results, now to shoot it at the range. The before and after pictures are below.

 

[kaaskop49]

Smart move, AJ! Cannot understand how shooters can control that bird's-head grip. Ruger does produce a number of short-bbl SAs with the standard grip frame, but Ruger SAs do not enchant me.

AJ, would love to hear how you shot with the "square butt" frame.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

 

[StrawHat]

I picked up a Ruger Vaquero with a Birds Head grip and a 3 1/5 inch barrel in .45 Colt. After shooting it I decided the grips was not large enough to give me good control of the revolver under recoil. I discussed changing the grip to a "Plow Handle" type grip frame. While discussing the why's and how's, a fine gentleman on another forum offered me a new grip frame. He mailed it to me without recompense. I removed the Birds Head grip frame and installed the Plow Handle. I am happy with the results, now to shoot it at the range. The before and after pictures are below.

AJ,

It appears your new grip frame is the old birdseye front strap with an original plow handle backstrap? Similar to the Keith No. 5?

If so, not a bad choice!

Kevin

 

[gunbarrel]

I like the ergonomics change and it looks good. I used to shoot CAS matches in the old days (Gunbarrel, SASS #20505), and to me, the recoil of the plow-handle feels like what a Colt SAA clone recoil should be. Let that muzzle rock upwards and put that hammer close to your thumb. I think you are going to be pleased with the results.

 

[AJ]

Smart move, AJ! Cannot understand how shooters can control that bird's-head grip. Ruger does produce a number of short-bbl SAs with the standard grip frame, but Ruger SAs do not enchant me.

AJ, would love to hear how you shot with the "square butt" frame.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

Will keep you all posted.

 

[AJ]

AJ,

It appears your new grip frame is the old birdseye front strap with an original plow handle backstrap? Similar to the Keith No. 5?

If so, not a bad choice!

Kevin

I like the Keith No. 5. I have a liking for short barreled SAA. I had a Colt SAA Gen 3 with a 4 inch barrel that had the action smoothed up in the Colt Custom Shop, stupidly traded it off. Had an AWA SAA with a 3 inch barrel that was just about as slick and ended up trading that one off. I wanted this Ruger as it had a 3 1/2 inch barrel, but found I did not have the control that I wanted with the Birdshead grip. Will try the plow handle and see how it does.

I am hoping it won't be a bad choice!

AJ

 

[BigMuddy]

The bird’s head grip looks good, but they are hell to shoot, especially with 45’s. I think you will be glad with the “upgrade”.

Dan