Cowboy-Approved: Ruger Vaquero Review (Built for Action, Not a Display Case)

Published on July 19, 2025
Duration: 29:50

This review of the Ruger Vaquero highlights its robust construction, durability, and suitability for recreational shooting and cowboy action. While praised for its strength and reliability, the review points out a thicker-than-ideal barrel, a high hammer, and basic bluing as potential drawbacks. The firearm's transfer bar safety mechanism allows for safe carrying with a full cylinder, differentiating it from traditional Colt Single Action Army designs. The reviewer suggests a 9mm version with a thinner barrel and improved aesthetics would be highly desirable.

Quick Summary

The Ruger Vaquero is a highly durable and shootable revolver, favored for cowboy action shooting and recreational use. It features a robust build, a transfer bar safety for safe carrying, and can handle higher pressure loads. While praised for its strength, criticisms include a thick barrel, high hammer, and basic bluing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main strengths of the Ruger Vaquero?

The Ruger Vaquero is highly praised for its exceptional quality, durability, and shootability. It's considered a robust firearm suitable for demanding applications like cowboy action shooting and general recreational use, often lasting for generations.

What are the key differences between the Ruger Vaquero and a traditional Colt Single Action Army?

The Vaquero features a slightly larger frame, a transfer bar safety for safer carrying with a full cylinder, coil springs for improved reliability, and a stronger overall construction capable of handling higher pressure 'Ruger-only' loads, distinguishing it from the more traditional SAA design.

What are the primary criticisms of the Ruger Vaquero?

Criticisms include a barrel that is considered overly thick and heavy, a high hammer that can slow down drawing from a holster, and basic bluing quality. The reviewer also notes the simpler two-click lockwork compared to the SAA's more nuanced action.

What calibers are commonly available for the Ruger Vaquero?

The Ruger Vaquero is available in a good variety of calibers, with common options including .45 Colt, .357 Magnum/.38 Special, and .44 Magnum. Rarer calibers like .32 H&R Magnum and limited runs of .44-40 WCF have also been produced.

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