Convertable Ruger Vaquero?

[FSCJedi]

I'm looking for a blued ruger vaquero with a 5.5" barrel that has both a .45LC cylinder and a .45ACP cylinder. Does this gun exist? I've seen this gun with a 4 3/4" barrel, but not the 5.5". Is it as simple as buying a normal .45LC vaquero and then buying a .45ACP cylinder for it? Can you revolver pros shed some light for me? Thanks.

 

[Jim March]

There were special off-catalog runs of these made for Davidson's and I think Lipseys?

Not many...1,000 of each variant, stainless and blue. I think.

You CAN "roll your own" any of several ways: find a factory 45ACP cylinder and add it to a 45LC gun. Odds are about 50/50 or a bit better that it'll drop in without "fitting" - use the "checkout procedures" to check endplay and timing issues...if it's off, any decent gunsmith can sort it out.

Can't find a 45ACP cylinder? Find a lesser caliber Vaquero or Blackhawk cylinder and have it reamed bigger to whatever caliber you want. Check it's timing and endplay issues first - although the bore will be smaller, you can still check for the "circle inside circle" alignment and endplay.

Oh ya: if you're not picky about looks, yes, you can run a stainless cylinder in a blue gun "palimino".

 

[45crittergitter]

The 4-5/8" definitely exists, but I cannot say about the 5-1/2". They are a non-catalog item. Check the gun sale and auction websites.

 

[targetshootr]

If you decide to convert a smaller caliber cylinder, check the overall length before buying. Some are shorter. Also, Blackhawk cylinders are interchangable with Vaqueros.
I contacted the seller of a convertible and made an offer on the extra cylinder which he was glad to hear.