blackhawk or vaquero

[UniversalFrost]

get your self one of the blackhawks in .357/38 and get a 9mm cylinder as well. it would be very universal at that point.

they can be had on gunbroker for around 300 to 400 depending on condition. I picked up a 50th anniversary model with the 357/38 and 9mm cylinders for $350 shipped new in the box a few months ago.

JOE

 

[Virginian]

There is no, repeat no, difference in strength between an original Vaquero and a Blackhawk. Same frame.
There are no listed "Ruger only" .357 loads that I am aware of, so even a New Vaquero is strong eonough for any SAAMI .357 Magnum load.
There is no difference in accuracy between a Vaquero, and a Blackhawk. I know, I have had several examples of both. I would think a New Vaquero would be equally accurate, but I cannot speak from experience.
If you can stick with one basic load, I would advise you to get either a 5-1/2" Vaquero or a 6-1/2" Blackhawk in .357, whichever you prefer, and either one will do what you want to do. If you plan to play around with a bunch of different loads, get the Blackhawk.
I do not think there is another .357 Single Action handgun that would serve you nearly as well for near the same money. If you were looking for the Colt SAA 'experience', there are several alternatives, but an Ruger will probably outlive all of them several times over.

 

[frankiestoys]

I like them both, but the black hawk in 357 just had better sight's and shoots anything, i love mine.