Ruger revolvers

03 May 2008, 21:16

razor1

Ruger revolvers

I have a couple of questions about Ruger revolvers. First off is how do you tell the differance between old and new model Vaqueros? I have found a used one but I want to be sure instead of taking the owners word. I have no reason not trust him,but don't want to make a mistake. Second question is about a Bisley hunter I have in 44 magnum.I would like to have a shorter barrel instead of the scoped. 7.5 " for some plinking. Are aftermarket barrels available and can these be changed out by an average Joe and not a pro gunsmith? Thanks

03 May 2008, 21:52

Ricochet

I may be wrong, but I don't recall Vaqueros being sold before the switchover to the New Model Blackhawks.

Changing revolver barrels isn't a trivial task, but shortening a barrel's easily done by a gunsmith and isn't beyond a talented tinkerer. If you go shorter than the ejector rod housing it gets a lot more complicated, of course.

03 May 2008, 22:24

razor1

What I am looking for is to have two barrels for the same revolver that can be swapped around depending on what I am shooting. One will have the option of being scoped(what I have now) and one will be shorter (5.5") for targets and shorter shots on game. Now that I think about it I guess I need to quit being so tight and pony up the money for a new revolver with a 5.5' barrel. Any Ideas on the vaqueros? I handload and am thinking I need the older, stronger model vaquero for some stout 45 Colt loads. I really like the feel of the new vaquero,but am concerned about how hard it can be pushed. I probably won't shoot the high end stuff,but would like to have the option if so desired.

04 May 2008, 00:48

TBEAR99

i wouldn't be afraid of rugers for strentgh they are the best on the market for this area

04 May 2008, 02:02

Boxhead

Ruger has only made Vaquero's and New Vaquero's and the cylinder frame is so marked. The Vaquero is the large framed gun that can handle "For Ruger Only" loads often published in the various reloading manuals. The New Vaquero is built on a smaller frame of roughly the same size as the Colt SAA. As such, it cannot handle the loads mentioned above.

04 May 2008, 03:50

Ricochet

Ah! I see what was being asked. Thanks for the clarification!

04 May 2008, 04:16

razor1

I was asking about two differant guns,the Super blackhawk I have now and a Vaquero that I have found. They are marked Vaquero and New Vaquero.That makes it so easy even I can figure out which is which. lol

Sorry for the confusion. I should have been more clear. Thanks everyone for your help.One more thing if you had to chose between a Vaquero in 45 Colt or a Blackhawk in 45Colt which would it be and why.Are there differances in strength,accuracy or can one be more readily customized than the other. Sorry for all the questions I am quite new to revolvers.

04 May 2008, 05:06

TBEAR99

i would take blackhawk everytime do to sights vs the notch on frame of vaquero

04 May 2008, 09:39

Ricochet

Never had a Vaquero, but I sure am fond of my old Super Blackhawk.

And I've never really wanted a .45 Colt since I got it. I can load down the .44 Mag and get the same effect.

04 May 2008, 19:10

razor1

I think I am gonna pass on the Vaquero and go with a Blackhawk or a Super Blackhawk. I have a SBH Hunter in 44 mag. and am wanting a 45 Colt. I found a Blackhawk for $375 but it has a 4 5/8" barrel and I really want one with a 5.5" barrel which seem to be a little harder to find. I am gonna check with a couple of my local gun shops and see what they can come up with. I need a leather holster for a SBH with a 7.5" barrel and is scoped. Anyone know where I might find one? I have looked at the ones made out of that nylon stuff and don't want one of those at all. Thanks

06 May 2008, 11:09

Lost Sheep

quote:
Originally posted by razor1:
What I am looking for is to have two barrels for the same revolver that can be swapped around depending on what I am shooting. One will have the option of being scoped(what I have now) and one will be shorter (5.5") for targets and shorter shots on game. Now that I think about it I guess I need to quit being so tight and pony up the money for a new revolver with a 5.5' barrel. Any Ideas on the vaqueros? I handload and am thinking I need the older, stronger model vaquero for some stout 45 Colt loads. I really like the feel of the new vaquero,but am concerned about how hard it can be pushed. I probably won't shoot the high end stuff,but would like to have the option if so desired.

The only revolver(s) I know of which can have their barrles changed out by the typical owner are the Dan Wesson revolvers. I have a pistol pack with 4 barrels, 2" 4" 6" and 8". I would love to be able to do that with my Rugers.

Lost sheep (Larry)