Ruger New Vaquero 357 Mag or 45 Colt? (Review & Accuracy)

So how good it the Ruger New Vaquero and should you own one? We answer those questions and more in this review...

[@toddmiller3387]

Got the 45. Sent it back to ruger to be fine tuned. Changed spring, polishing, etc...got back a pistol that shoots like a peace of art....

[@rabidsquirrel314]

I have had my original Vaquero long colt for 25 years and it is still by far the absolute favorite pistol at my disposal. Incredibly comfortable to shoot. I used paint to dial it in then when I found my mark I notched the sight. I wouldn't give mine up for anything. The Buffalo Bore rounds are crazy to shoot out of it but its lots of fun. I'm sure the .357 is a fine pistol but I have always been attracted to the .45 round even in my 45-70 lever action. Like the saying goes, "sometimes short fat and slow gets the job done well". My .2 cents and experience. Ruger did a fantastic job with the Vaquero.

[@puertoricanboy100]

Could you shoot .45 ACP as well?

[@rabidsquirrel314]

@puertoricanboy100 I don't but if I got the new convertible cylinder I probably could. I shoot cowboy (plinking) loads, home defense loads, hot loads and snake shot. I want to get the new cylinder just haven't pulled the trigger yet.

[@corneliuscrewe677]

Those original Vaqueros were something else. My buddy was working as a gunsmith and had a pair of them in .45 Colt come in to be fitted with birds head grips and accurized with matched triggers. I usually got to test fire his work when he finished a job. They were an absolute joy to shoot.

[@blaine1124]

I absolutely agree!!!!

[@paymonm9065]

@@rabidsquirrel314I have the Ruger Vaquero in .45 colt. A gunsmith had a .45 acp Blackhawk cylinder he fitted to it, so that’s one way to go.

[@1969plato]

Ruger offers a 45acp cylinder as well, great option for those of us who already own 1911s. Lovely SA revolvers, I can't wait to buy one.

[@homebypros5030]

Live Free I have one and they are great!

[@paulm3931]

the caveat is that you need to buy them as a fitted pair. They don't just sell 45 ACP cylinders by themselves. If you buy the "convertible" you get both.

[@john1cheree]

The COLT design is the most beautiful single action design ever produced !. It just keeps coming back!.

[@steelgila]

How do you improve on perfection?

[@CowBeatsCrow]

@@steelgila You get a Remington Improved Army, of course!

[@toddy2519]

The Colt 1860 Army, to me, is the most beautiful design of the entire Colt lineup..just my opinion.

[@toddy2519]

@@CowBeatsCrow Improved Army? I'm not familiar with that model. Did you mean the Remington New Model Army in .44 caliber?

[@brandoncomer6492]

I bought the 357 version. I really like being able to shoot 38special at the range while having the option to load 357 for more practical purposes. And frankly I think the 357 is just a much better cartridge than the 45

[@gwcrispi]

.357/.38 is better in every way, except it isn't AUTHENTIC!

[@toddy2519]

@@christopherrowley7506 Smokeless powder was originally invented in 1884 so it certainly is authentic! O.F. Mossberg, of Mossberg and Sons, invented the transfer bar safety system while working at the Iver Johnson firearms company. For some reason, Ruger says they invented it but that's not correct.

[@wingnutmcspazatron3957]

Why do you think 357 is better than Colt45?

[@marktwain2053]

In factory loads, absolutely. In the old Vaquero, with hefty rounds, the .45 is far and away better.

[@TheyStoleMyHandleAgain]

IDK, at one time Elmer Keith did an evaluation of bullet shape, diameter, weight, and velocity on accuracy, and came out with his own design SWC bullets to take advantage of his findings. He was definitely in favor of the 44 size, which would match up to the 45LC with the Keith SWC bullets.

[@toddvideo]

Why choose? I simply bought one of each! ;)

[@AZTrigger]

I agree - me too :-)

[@OdeeOz]

Must be nice to have money.

[@fubokuen]

You have two hands, after all...

[@dattape2828]

38 specials are cheaper to shoot. no reloading

[@glengun4916]

38 is gay!

[@tannervanvorst2908]

I saw this video when I was looking for my first single action it is very informative! And I can highly reccomend the Ruger new vaquero in 357.

[@ronfillmore281]

I have a Ruger Blackhawk in .357 and another in .44 mag. I also have a Colt SAA and a Ruger Vaquero, both in .45LC. I have found the .357 to be a bit more accurate at ranges of 100 yards, but I would prefer the .45 should I find myself in a gunfight. I can shoot it a bit faster with more confidence in hitting where I want. Other than that, either works for me. They both work well on feral hogs, and they are tough! One point he failed to make considering the 5 oz difference in weight between the .357 and the .45. Once loaded the .45 ammo is a bit heavier than the .357. I doubt there is more than 2-3 oz difference between the two both loaded.

[@Dreamhawke]

Fantastic video! Everything I needed to know in one place. Perfect thanks!

[@americanpatriot9865]

In the old days if they had a 357 it would give the 45 colt a lot of competition.

[@jamesm1]

Hell, the .38 special +p even could. The army switched from .45lc to a lighter pistol round in the late 1800s but found out when fighting the Moro natives and their big tropical hardwood shields in the Philippines, that they needed something better, and the .38 special was developed.

[@876mpr]

Not even close. The.45 Colt was loaded with as much as 40 grains of black under a 250 grain bullet for around 975-1000 fps from a 7.5” barrel. And as we all know, muzzle energy in handgun rounds has nothing to do with short range knock down power. One center hit with the “reduced” 30 grain of black military loads and the drugged up Moros were done.

[@jamesm1]

@@876mpr They weren't using .45 LC ones as standard issue going into the Spanish American War, over 5 years earlier the army had switched to .38LC, which was significantly less powerful, thus the .38 special was necessary to develop.

[@876mpr]

James M Correct, The .38 Long Colt was woefully underpowered, leading the army to rush the SAA back out to the troops in the Philippines. However, the.38 Special only throws an 8 grain heavier bullet about 100 fps faster than the .38 Long Colt, so it really wasn’t much more powerful until the .38-44 was introduced in 1930. Check out the Thompson-LaGarde tests from 1903-1904. Includes the.38 revolver rounds, 9mm, .38 Colt auto, and the.45 caliber rounds of the day. They concluded that the next military round had to be at least .45.

[@jj-ve9wy]

Thank you an informative and well presented review of these two beautiful pistols.

[@richardpersoage8504]

great video. You sold me on the ruger vaquero.

[@EricBodenstab]

Good comparison of the calibers, much needed

[@benpickle8106]

I have shot these guns for many years I wouldn't file the sight it's an elevation sight for further distances I can shoot my 45 colt ruger vaquero at 65 yards and hit spot on and I never have filed the sight just dont use the whole sight line it up and make the sights level with each other.

[@richardflaherty2373]

Thank you for taking the time and making the effort to create this informative video. I have a Henry rifle in 45 Colt and wanted to get a revolver in the same caliber. Your video was helpful.

[@prodigy6000]

Excellent information for those of us new to single sixes...and great info on what to be realistic about for grouping...I have some 6" performance center guns that are more accurate than some rifles...but I was takin aback when I shot my new vaquero haha ...5 - 6" groups and all low. But these guns also have rudimentary sights...I will play some more before filling.

[@johnherrera5261]

Great video definitely going with the .357

[@marktombazian6490]

Well...I've owned all of them. .38/.357 .45 ACP LC and every magnum made. Frankly...shoot what you're comfortable with.. A 38 Special is a great defense round if you can hit what you want. .45 ACP and LC are good. But keep in mind that shooting at the range with ear muffs is way different from firing a gun in a room where your ears will be ringing or you'll burst an ear drum if you use big loads or magnums. Even a .22 mag is an ear splitting round in a close room. I have no problem with a .22LR in a revolver or .38 wadcutters low loads. At 6-15 feet indoors 1)you can't miss if you shoot a lot 2) you won't wreck your hearing 3) the bullet doesn't come out. Hit someone in the shoulder They're hurt bad or knee and they drop. If you're in dire circumstances go for a head shot. .22 in the head usually stops them and .38 is...a no brainer....it's really about calm under pressure...hit what you're shooting at, don't go jerking the trigger and spraying bullets all over the place. That church shooting in Texas? The attacker had a shotgun the defender a handgun...one shot from the defender killed the attacker. FYI.

[@scooterbob4432]

I just load 38 wadcutters in my vintage light alloy Colt Agent or my old S & W Model 60. I also like non magnum big bore revolvers like my Charter Bulldog 44 Special which I believe has the same knock down power as the legendary 45 Colt.

[@marktombazian6490]

@@scooterbob4432 yep. 38 waddies are a great up close round. People have no idea what it's like to be shot... Try taking 38 waddies in a kevlar vest at 12 feet...hurts so bad you'll feel like you got kicked by a mule. So to get shot by any round is ouch! But adrenaline kicks in and even mags don't stop someone unless it's a kill. Battlefield stats are full of guys who got hit badly and kept fighting anyway. So .... Choose your favorite.

[@scooterbob4432]

@@marktombazian6490 Unlike Hollywood movies, it's true that some people got shot several times but still kept on fighting. But I guess shot placements really helps in stopping a threat. A 1911 45 ACP is one of the proven manstopper but I feel more comfortable shooting my revolvers because of my aging fingers and hands. My RIA 1911 A2 Hi-Cap is getting too heavy for me to be carrying around lately. Well, let's just continue enjoying doing our favorite hobby. Stay safe.

[@redesert_boy8202]

Nice SA presentation covering both calibers. It is indeed nice to own at least 1 SA especially in .45 Colt especially a Blackhawk as you can consider putting those more powerful hunting rounds in it. However, if you want it just to carry in the woods/defense the Vaquero is going to most likely be more manageable and may even want the convertible option. Thanks AZ Trigger.

[@kevinraimond7658]

You do great reviews!

[@crazylegs5063]

great informational video. thanks

[@sheepdog72]

thank you for accurately describing the transfer bar!

[@dickceelen6823]

Thanks a lot for the info. Those are some good looking guns you got there.

[@GeneralLee1961.3]

Colt .45, the old west legend 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@garyelsik3376]

You can shoot all of these in the .357 Magnum... 357 Mag, 38 Spl., 38 Long Colt, and 38 Short Colt.

[@jessep7464]

Was wondering that thank you for putting that here the .357 seems like the smarter choice then tbh.

[@chillios2222]

they also have a 9mm cylinder I believe that you can put in there when you take the 357 cylinder out

[@rd0054]

Thanks. Good to know.

[@JC-ew2mn]

Excellent information for any lover of SAA revolvers. Liked and subscribed 👊

[@aridian7787]

I've had a Ruger Vaquero .45 Colt for 20 some years and it's my FAVORITE pistol! They're a little too bulky for concealed carry but for any kind of sport shooting or just recreational shooting, nothing beats .45 Colt. Anyone who hasn't tried one should try it. Go to a good shooting range and rent one, try shooting 100 rounds at least. For home defense the .45 Colt has all the stopping power of any of the magnums but FAR less recoil. And you won't have to worry about it going thru the intruder, thru walls and maybe hitting a family member. The .45 Long Colt WAS the "magnum" pistol of it's day. Also, the single action is very good for teaching a beginner how to shoot. The recoil is light enough that your wife or daughters won't be afraid of it and flinch when firing. I taught my wife and daughter how to shoot with my Vaquero and both of them have very good proficiency. I know either of them could effectively protect themselves in the event of a home intruder. They both easily mastered 9mm pistols for concealed carry also, after first learning the basics with the .45.

[@rjfirefly5513]

See Maas Ayoob's interview with Bob Stasch ex Chicago cop and expert on gun fights he survived 14 gunfights and was considered an expert who later trained other cops. He first carried .45 long colt revolvers since that was before the .357 magnum.His experience was that only head shots would be a "one shot stopper" he peppered guys with .45 colt and they still didn't drop. He later changed to training with shooting pie plates to simulate heads. I will post the KZbin link.this was an amazing interview of someone who speaks from real life experience. It will enlighten you about "stopping power." of course loads are better today, but .45 long colt was still a beefy load back in the day.Check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5WWp5KcqNiUmKs

[@toddy2519]

@@rjfirefly5513 Saw it and it's a very informative video of that courageous police officer in Chicago1

[@cliffchilders5820]

45!!!!! I love the 45 Colt cat'ridge!! I did change out the low spur hammer, for a Black-hawk hammer!

[@edwardchester8319]

Great informative video. Much appreciated. Best one I’ve seen so far for good information.

[@tjmooremusic]

nice review. since I'm in the market for one of these I appreciate it very much. I will definitely be going with the 357 magnum. I've seen the Bisley on video and once in a store but never handled it. it dosnt have the Colt Army look but is interesting to me. oh, my question,. I was under the impression that a lighter bullet with a higher load would raise the point of impact. apparently not. it's hard with the contradictory info one gets on KZbin. overall I've had much more positive experience and have learned alot online. I will check out more of your videos and possibly add you to my short list of subscitions. Thanks again and safe shootin to ya.

[@tjmooremusic]

Louis Macchia you mean the Bisley? Or the New Vaquero?

[@tjmooremusic]

Louis Macchia thanks. I've been very happy with my 357 Blackhawk convertible. I've two ruger rifles so I am big on rugers. heck my 9 year old daughter has a ruger bearcat as well. I will definitely go with the Vaquero in 357 / 38.. just have to find one that feels right in my hand. Bisley or new Vaquero? we will see. thanks again and safe shootin to ya!

[@michaelbooher339]

I have a new Vaquero in .45LC, colored case hardened finish. Excellent handgun and damn fun to shoot.

[@stevenmike1878]

after looking up different saa for ages i went with the uberti 357 7.5" calvery. it was cheaper, has the 4 hammer clicks, beautiful color case hardening, and quilted polished dark walnut grips. everyone says it looks way to pretty to shoot, and plenty of cowboy action shooting competitors use uberti's. only thing is you have to find one that calls out to you, since they have made so many different varieties and flavors, finding one you really really like can be a treasure hunt.

[@stevestringham1095]

you still liking your Uberti?

[@stevenmike1878]

​@@stevestringham1095 lol i shot it the other day. i hand loaded some 38 short colts and 38 special wad cutter. the people next to me at the range were talking to each other about how they wanted to get an old school cowboy revolver when they saw it. its great with 357 mag .with the rounded handle the gun rolls up deflecting most of the recoil, so you don't hurt your hand. with the longer barrel the gun rises around 45° with hot loads. the gun weight + barrel lenght + handle + caliber all complement and balance with each other really well.

[@stevestringham1095]

@@stevenmike1878 nice i need to find me one. thanks for the copy.

[@colinblake24]

Thanks, You covered a lot very well

[@johnharper7014]

I have the early one on the .44 magnum frame, love it

[@americanpatriot9865]

I have the stainless steel 4.75 in barrel in .357 cal. Its a beautiful pistol! Much better looking than black. If you’re thinking of buying one, get it. You won’t be disappointed!

[@joeydoesthings4955]

I just bought the 5.5inch version in stainless steel and .357, I am very excited to pick it up and take it to the range!

[@howardgreen9718]

Very comprehensive thanks mate

[@intense_pickle]

I would say for a range gun or for light defensive shooting, the .357 magnum is ideal. My opinion is that the extra weight is good for accuracy, and the extra metal in the barrel and cylinder means you can shoot whatever .357 mag loads you want without issue. Post-apocalypse approved!

[@koDaffi]

Plus 2 different calibers in 1 gun. Ultra Post Apocalypse

[@toddy2519]

Be careful, there are a few major manufacturers that produce .357 magnum revolvers that are not made to shoot a steady diet of that caliber. I might be wrong but I think the S&W Model 19 or Model 66 is one of those.

[@evocati6523]

Light defensive shooting? Have you seen the numbers 357 puts up? It still holds the record for highest one shot stop ratio. Light use... delusional

[@randallbyrd1973]

Awesome review TY for sharing

[@cigardoc100]

Very thorough and clear; thank you. When I weigh my firearms with a digital scale, I choose to load them (carefully, of course). My guess is that your .357 would possibly weigh less, loaded, than your .45 LC, loaded, because each round is 100 grams heavier (250 to 158 in "standard" loads). Your actual "carry weight," when the firearm is loaded on the hip, would probably be very close to equivalent. Thanks again.

[@kennethquesenberry2610]

It's possible that the .357 has a heavier barrel but I don't know. Either way, I don't think it matters, which I say based on carrying heavier handguns in a holster. The difference is probably not going to be noticeable.

[@kenedmisten7995]

@@kennethquesenberry2610 Yes I know empty the 45s are lighter. The outside of the guns are the same so bigger bore in cylinder and barrel lightens them up. You will notice this if you pick them up side by side.

[@jamesoncross7494]

I like your videos. Very informative. I like how you set up your carmera. You keep clearing your throat like you are in a damp basement. I hope you are ok.

[@jc-vc7xq]

I’ll take the 357 any day

[@125saito]

I'll take the .45 any day.

[@mobleyMobley]

I have one! It's tits!

[@Quickliqour]

Boobies

[@garylaubscher4487]

No brainer, 357 anyday, the 45 colt is a flying saucer, stand behind the shooter in low light you can see the bullet in flight its so slow, its way past its prime.

[@xAutoTx]

@@garylaubscher4487 Are we playin' cowboys or not? If I wanted a modern gun, I wouldn't be buying an SAA.

[@mn999]

very informative, thank you

[@greenwolf401]

I wonder what the weight comparison is if they are fully loaded? I know that it will vary depending on the ammo chosen.

[@HighFalutinTootin]

Beautiful pistols have to get 2 for balance purposes love the classic design and timeless style

[@zombieplus1423]

The Vaquero isn't a Colt clone, it's an entirely different gun based on the Ruger Blackhawk.

[@tubeguy4066]

Its a blantant ripoff tbh

[@zombieplus1423]

@@tubeguy4066 Not really, it was designed to give CAS folks something more robust and modern to shoot. All it shares with the Colt is its externals.

[@paulm3931]

I thought the same thing. At this point.. It's not a clone. It's just a very nice single action pistol. Taking nothing away from the Colt.

[@darinhintz5723]

So what you're saying is Ruger designed a gun from napkin drawings and it just so happened to come out resembling a Colt SAA? c'mon

[@zombieplus1423]

@@darinhintz5723 Look inside a Ruger and look inside a Colt, then come back to me and tell me they're the same.

[@joracer1]

Note, if you wanna shoot cfda, you'll need the .45...secondly you weigh the ammo and add to the overall weight, because that's what you are really pulling out of the holster.

[@kennethbailey2616]

I want an old version because I have a Henry Big Boy in .45 Colt. I want to be able to use my heavy reloads in either piece.

[@mikeytorres4759]

Hello, Kenneth. I am interested in the Big Boy in 45 LC. I've read nothing but great reviews on it with different calibers. How does the 45 LC handle on the Big Boy? Thank you.

[@kennethbailey2616]

Mikey Torres Mine shoots like a dream and very little felt recoil. I have only shot cowboy action loads in it but I plan to shoot some Buffalo Bore +P loads in it soon. I also put a Skinner peep sight on it. Had to put a higher front sight on it as well that I also got from Skinner.

[@mikeytorres4759]

@@kennethbailey2616 Thank you, brother!

[@paulbadger6912]

Greg’s video. Thanks for all the info

[@user-ho4nw5sf3w]

As a gunsmith and avid single action fan. This is the revolver I would recommend. And did to a brother in Idaho. Oh and Ruger has about the best guarantee I've ever seen.

[@charlescomly1]

I took a lot of meat of of mine in order to hit where I wanted to, also you can buy a replacement sight blade from ruger or other aftermarket sources.

[@totljag1]

Great review , thanks 🙏

[@Valor_73737]

There is a safe way to know what you can shoot in the ,45 Vaquero! Any load safe in the original Colt SAA will be more than safe in the new vaquero. I have a Vaquero in .45 and since I also have a new generation Colt SAA in that caliber I use the same ammo in either gun! I also have a Ruger Blackhawk in .357. That is my primary carry gun around my rural property! However, when horseback I carry a .45 because it seems to have less muzzle blast than the .357. More comfortable for my horse. He handles either one fine, but it just seems that way to me. We have a feral hog problem, the .45 might have a slight edge on knocking a hog down. Hard to say.

[@05mcparker]

One of the better New Vaquero Videos out there, Thanks

[@jimelmore9728]

I like the vaquero, but would probably do a slight modification by changing the hammer to the bisley type. .357 mag is nice if you shot a lot. But I love the .45 LC.

[@charlieandhudsonspal1312]

I painted my front sight with white out. I also put a set of Cary Chapman grips on it. Spalted Maple. Red birds eye maple on the Super Blackhawk

[@What_Fred_Said]

I was thinking about getting into cowboy action shooting. I borrowed a friends vaquero in 45 colt. Bought some ammo for it and was surprised how much ammo was. I then bought two guns and decided to get them in 38/357 for a few reasons. 1. It was the most popular round in cowboy shooting, 2. It's a lot cheaper to shoot. 3. At the cowboy shoots they shoot a lot of low charged 38 rounds with wax bullets. To each his own, get what you want it's your money.

[@abee.s.corpus2455]

SASS cowboy action shooting requires lead bullets. Cowboy fast draw uses primer propelled wax bullets.

[@thomaszaccone3960]

I like the roll. It positions the gun better for the next shot when using just one hand.

[@jeffreybonell4641]

I will buy when they come back with Case Hardened options :)

[@AZTrigger]

I hear you - case hardened firearms are some of the most beautiful finishes produced in my opinion :-)

[@tomyearman8915]

I had an original Vaquero that was case colored .I made the mistake of getting Flitz polish on the frame and it took the color off in seconds.Not real Case coloring . not durable.

[@jeffreybonell4641]

Tom Yearman: Ouch! That's terrible! Sorry for your loss. And thanks for the info, good to know.

[@sjeverett75]

if you dont reload, you better buy several brands of ammo and different weights of projectile before you think of filing down your sight. I have a ruger single six convertible and have learned the best thing to do is to take a few sighting shots because lots of and brands of 22lr can vary so.much and the poi between 22lr and 22 mag are so different it would be pointless to file it down. Kimda the same if you plan on shooting 38 and 357 or 45lc and 45acp if you get the vaquero with 2 cylinders for the 45's.

[@SamuraiChris78]

I have fired one in 45 Colt and I can testify that these are a ton of fun to shoot! When my budget allows I will definitely own one!

[@Mbartel500]

A person might be able to get two Vaqueros with sequential serial numbers, but having two of them with matching serial numbers is not possible. Each firearm produced by a legitimate firearms manufacturer must have a unique serial number. Also the .45 colt is not .48 caliber.

[@MarkMphonoman]

Great advice.👍

[@a9323hj]

I have a new Vaquero. My only beef is the grip is not as long as a SAA. Otherwise a wonderful revolver. I have a Colt SAA replica BB gun. The grip is perfect. About a 1/4 inch longer than the Vaquero. Very comfortable to hold.

[@bushwhackedonvhs]

I have the same BB gun and I can tell you from owning an actual SAA, the Vaquero grip is about the same length as a real SAA. Those BB guns are off in several dimensions but most noticeably the grip is more like an 1860 Army than an 1873.

[@michaellacy847]

The Vaquero is a copy of the Colt Peacemaker the New Army had a post site on the front and if it was using metallic cartridges require a conversion kit because they were cap and ball pistols. The Peacemaker was designed for metallic cartridges from the git go.

[@JessicaSimonson1976]

The EAA bounty Hunter in .45 long colt ....is a great gun. Also has transfer bar safety system.

[@rowdyrager-9403]

I am lolking to get one when I save up again. Just paid off a small loan so a couple months if I can find one I'll probably go with .357/.38 just due to the availability of the ammo. I do reload but finding components is tough now too.

[@brandoncomer6492]

I like the 357 way more. Use 38 for cheap and easy plinking and 357 for home defense or carry.

[@CROSSFIRE_TACTICS_SOFIA]

Great video. Thank you.

[@michaelmcgill8104]

That blued one is so beautiful and shiny! Would you ever make a newer video of that one in higher definition? Just a couple min of holding it and showing it from different angles and close up etc. The definition of this one is a bit dated unfortunately as happens with time.

[@richardsnyder9767]

I got the 45 Colt with the 45ACP cylinder. Factory 45ACP is cheaper than factory 38 Special. For more power I have 3 44 Magnum Vaqueros.

[@homebypros5030]

Richard Snyder , I have one with the 45 auto cylinder. I can shoot the Buffalo Bore through mine to hunt. It is one of my favorites.

[@countinmecrow2252]

Good vid. Thqanks

[@johnharper7014]

did you know you can use the stocks from the .22 single-six?

[@stevelewis6259]

I have om Blackhawk Only thing I somewhat like oo these new is how it reloads especially when I was considering doing the pawl on mine.

[@frankgon4]

I picked up an Evil Roy in .45 colt. I am thinking about a sheriff version with 3 1/2 inch barrel version. Debating on bird head grip or standard grip. Your recommendation on caliber. I am leaning towards a .357 version as with the shorter barre itl would mitigate the front heavy feeling. Do you have any experience with the shorter barrels?

[@tccgrad1999]

Is that a factory blue finish on the .45? It looks to be more polished than what I have seen.

[@halreinholtz3192]

I have used clear epoxy mixed with your choice of paint color to mark the front sight. It lasts much longer than paint alone.

[@walksfletcher]

Fixed sight revolvers are regulated by Manufacturers to shoot to Point of Aim at 25 YARDS with the standard bullet weight for that cartridge.

[@michaeledlin9995]

You left out the 44 mag. Love it.

[@Tjtiki1]

I called Ruger and was told the New Vaquero could safely fire any round loaded to SAMMI specs.

[@geraldwmansfield9975]

I own the 45 in stainless with the 4 3/4" barrel. Also have a .45 in a Uberti C.M.S. Pro w/ the 3" barrel. Love em' both. My question concerns the belt and holster shown in your video. I know it's been 5 years, but could you tell me the brand of the holster you have.

[@fredhancz3097]

Thanks for sharing.

[@paulringgenberg8866]

I had an older 45 but will never do reload . Have a new 357 new vaquero I will not file the site it’s a lot better to paint the front but the best thing to use is cheap cheap cheap finger nail polish Just watch your holster doesn’t knock it off I think I paid a dollar a bottle for my thing and I’ll polish light green and light pink work really well

[@harrylime8077]

2024, wished I'd seen this and other video's on this subject years ago when these type of guns were available and affordable!!

[@philb8338]

.45 Colt all day, every day. I love my .357's but I only buy that chambering in a DA revolver.

[@williambigatti562]

If it shoots low, aim high, but don't file down the front sight! Anyways, it will vary depending on the ammo. Better than painting the front sight would be a piece of masking tape. Don't scar-up the revolver, you'll lessen the value.

[@thewhiskeycowboy-official]

Overall I agree. There are also so many variables in how your shots will fall that the front sight is not the only one to factor in. What is most important (imo) is to simply know your gun. With practice you will know how your gun shoots given range, load, etc. And in all honesty, it does not take long to figure that all out.

[@vincentlok8894]

That may be true, but if you buy your guns to shoot, you might want to just file it down and forget about "value". I mean if you want increasing value, then buy a nice watch or stocks and bonds. If you want to go and shoot and have gun, you might not care about that... especailly with mass produced guns like the RUgers.

[@AZTrigger]

Filing down the front sights was common practice in the old west - that is why the manufacturers almost always created tall front sights for the shooter to make their own adjustments...albeit crude with a file. It really is up to the shooter...

[@jeffreyelliott622]

I wouldn't personally file mine down but they Billy the Kid filed his front sight down to get a drop on Sheriff Brady as he said in the movie if it's true is anybody's guess !!!

[@wiseguy4364]

If your shooting low it is probably the shooter not the gun they are pulling low when anticipating the shot. The easiest way to check only load 4 rounds spin the cylinder so you don't know where he empties are aim at center of the target and fire if you yanking down on the dry chambers it is you .

[@CharlesSmith-ye3fv]

I carry my Decota 357 magnum with the hammer firing pin down between two cartridges with six cartridges with no problem

[@lennassi9114]

Great video. I will buy a Vaquero, thanks.

[@Hurricanepistol]

I like the 45 LC because it makes more noise with 250 grn bullett, so the score keepers know the hit better.

[@chillios2222]

I would be happy with any, but probably the 357 with the 9mm cylinder, then you can shoot 3 different calibers, and cheaper to shoot. But I guess if you want cheap get a .22. 45 Colt would be more the original but I know their ammo isnt cheap, but I am not sure it might just be easy to reload. Roll your own Lol. You could just get a black powder and load it on your own.

[@JohnnyRebKy]

I wish I'd bought one of the convertibles when they were around. Could shoot 45 colt AND 45acp. Had 2 cylinders with them. I have one in 357 mag that will shoot 9mm. Wish I'd got the 45 too

[@kennethquesenberry2610]

Think maybe I'll hold out for a .38-40. It's really hard to be different these days.

[@HURTSWHENIPEE310]

My friend has a small set of files and makes serrations horizontally to make the paint stick

[@garymcclellan3275]

Still have my Vaquero in .45 , stainless. It is a bit heavy. Make a big hole for sure!!I was doing jackrabbit's at 100+ feet no problem.

[@shakespear3383]

Gary McClellan you hunted jackrabbits with it?

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Haha. Had a Blackhawk with mild 45 colt 250 grain hardcast, punching holes through circular saw blades at nearly 60 yards. No problem.

[@minguscreek]

I've had both NV Montado in 45 & 357. Magnum is more versatile for loads. NV frame cannot handle plus loads in 45 as the original Vaquero frame could. Short bbl Montado is a great carry single action👍

[@exothermal.sprocket]

.45colt in Blackhawk/Super Blackhawk. No worries about bear bashing loads. They even offer 5-shot .454 Casull. Vaquero I'd run .357 personally. More metal, more strength, less costly ammo. Those target examples you've shown indicate those pistols need a cylinder throat reaming, a forcing cone 11° ream, and maybe a touchup to the barrel crown. Should tighten up groups nicely.

[@analvaroalvestorres2213]

Verdadeiras obras de arte!

[@timnelson75]

What are your thoughts about the Vaquero as a trail gun, predator defense, and what caliber?

[@mr.shorty4522]

I carry one of the old style ones loaded with hot .45 rounds

[@derekm.6868]

Ruger specifies the new vaqueros are safe to fire +p loads out of just not the "ruger only" loads that were made for the original vaquero

[@crazylegs5063]

Derek Matosich Do you have a link?

[@sjeverett75]

+Xundus the original Vaqueros were built off the SuperBlackHawk frames. That is what the "Ruger only" loads are for. The New Vaqueros are closer to the SAA which cannot handle the Ruger only loads and shooting them in a new Vaquero can lead to a kaboom

[@ajvotto6901]

Check your reloader's manual.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

+P to CAS type loads? that's not saying much. But it would be better to specify actual PSI pressures the Vaquero is safe to run.

[@user-ih9jl4zk4q]

So what your saying is okay to shoot +p ammo out of the new model vaquero.

[@mississippichris]

Of the 45 Colt, you said its impact is impactful. A statement like that carries double impact. 😀

[@RFMaster6]

.357/38spl. Because I had one 😀