I know the main deference between the to types but which is the all around better style of revolver? The two to compare are the Ruger Vaquero and the GP-100. Which is more durable, reliable, accurate, and fun to shoot. And which of the two are a stronger in design, meaning which can see more usage at the range with hi-power loads?
Single action vs. DA & SA.
- Thread starter Allist816
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the Vaquero would win out here. equally rugged construction and design, but with fewer parts
LawofThirds
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Most of the single action models, especially from ruger are extremely overbuilt and thus can handle much heavier loadings.
Still, a S&W 27 or Dan Wesson .357 maximum can handle anything you could possibly try to load in a .357.
Still, a S&W 27 or Dan Wesson .357 maximum can handle anything you could possibly try to load in a .357.
Either gun is plenty strong for any sane loads. You said, "and fun to shoot". That one is up to you to decide. It's very personal and no one else's answer might be your answer. I would have to say the Vaquero is stronger but, practically speaking, you're not likely to wear either one out anytime soon.
chicharrones
needs more ammo
For hunting, target shooting, or fun, It will be a personal choice whether you want the SA or DA/SA.
I've fired Blackhawks and I own a GP100 (no Vaquero experience). I think any steel framed Ruger revolver will last longer than you would care to remember.
I would rather have the DA/SA if defense will be a requirement, though.
I've fired Blackhawks and I own a GP100 (no Vaquero experience). I think any steel framed Ruger revolver will last longer than you would care to remember.
I would rather have the DA/SA if defense will be a requirement, though.
oldfool
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"use enough gun" really ought to mean match gun frame and weight to the loads you intend to shoot
do that, and any/either will do you fine
airweight + mega-magnum = no go
but you cannot shoot SA only in DA mode, nor DAO in SA mode
with a DA/SA you can have it all
do that, and any/either will do you fine
airweight + mega-magnum = no go
but you cannot shoot SA only in DA mode, nor DAO in SA mode
with a DA/SA you can have it all
I would go with the GP100 or the Blackhawk simply for the adjustable sights. (The Black hawk is also less $$$ than the Vaquero.) The only reason I would get a Vaquero would be for the nostalgia.
Either will handle any currently published .357 Magnum load.
Now if you were talking about the "New Vaquero" in .45 Colt, then the Redhawk will be stronger.
Either will handle any currently published .357 Magnum load.
Now if you were talking about the "New Vaquero" in .45 Colt, then the Redhawk will be stronger.
The Vaquero is basically a blackhawk with a different look. The old Vaqueros will handle almost anything you feed it.
The Blackhawk may be the better choice if you want the adjustable sights. Also the Black hawk can be bought with another cylinder to shoot 9mm or 38/357's.
If you are looking at the Vaquero I assume you like the look of it. I own one, I bought it because it was cool (Birdshead 3 5/8 barrel in 45 colt) Its fun to shoot and hits where I aim it.
I would get a double action if my primary concern was self defense.
There is a good reason to own both, if you have decided on that I would get the Vaquero first then the GP-100 later. I would choose that way only because I like the coolness of the vaquero and I can use it for home defense. Also you can run loads through it for hunting. The GP-100 second for a nice carry gun that is solid.
Your needs may be different than mine.
You can use the single action as a conceal carry, but you must practice cocking it, its a skill. Go to youtube and type fastest cowboy shooter and watch them. But it takes practice.
What it comes down to is what do you need it for?
For plain old fun and solid, the Blackhawk or Vaquero, but thats my opinion. (actually the Vaquero just because I think its cool)
(I own two double action 357's one is a Dan Wesson, a Dan Wesson 44, two single action 45's Uberti and Vaquero, a 357 Blackhawk, two 1911's, SR9, 380, and a Ruger MKII )
The Blackhawk may be the better choice if you want the adjustable sights. Also the Black hawk can be bought with another cylinder to shoot 9mm or 38/357's.
If you are looking at the Vaquero I assume you like the look of it. I own one, I bought it because it was cool (Birdshead 3 5/8 barrel in 45 colt) Its fun to shoot and hits where I aim it.
I would get a double action if my primary concern was self defense.
There is a good reason to own both, if you have decided on that I would get the Vaquero first then the GP-100 later. I would choose that way only because I like the coolness of the vaquero and I can use it for home defense. Also you can run loads through it for hunting. The GP-100 second for a nice carry gun that is solid.
Your needs may be different than mine.
You can use the single action as a conceal carry, but you must practice cocking it, its a skill. Go to youtube and type fastest cowboy shooter and watch them. But it takes practice.
What it comes down to is what do you need it for?
For plain old fun and solid, the Blackhawk or Vaquero, but thats my opinion. (actually the Vaquero just because I think its cool)
(I own two double action 357's one is a Dan Wesson, a Dan Wesson 44, two single action 45's Uberti and Vaquero, a 357 Blackhawk, two 1911's, SR9, 380, and a Ruger MKII )
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