Ruger, Old and New??

[ArchAngelCD]

Can someone tell me the difference between the Old Vaquero and New Vaquero? Also, the differences between the Old Model Blackhawk/Super Blackhawk and the New Model Blackhawk/Super Blackhawk?

And, which is better to own, the old or new??

 

[foghornl]

The "Old Model" Blackhawk/Super Blackhawk models were sometimes also called "3-Screw" models, indentifyable by the 3 screws through the sides, instead of the pins.

These "Old Models" did NOT have the transfer bar system, so unless later modified by Ruger to the transfer bar, SHOULD ONLY BE CARRIED 5-UP, that is only 5 chambers loaded, with the hammer resting on the empty cylinder. The new models can safely be carried with all 6 chambers loaded.

The latest "New" Vaquero has the slightly smaller grip/frame, more like the original Colt SAA revolvers, but still has the transfer bar. Vaqueros are fixed-sight guns, while the Blackhawk series guns feature adjustable sights.

Some of the Ruger Gurus should be along shortly with anything I missed.

If you send in your "3-Screw Old Model" in to Ruger for any service, and it hasn't been previously 'transfer bar modified', it will be.

I had one of the very last of the 3-screw models .357Mag Blackhawks years back, and I think it had a slighty smoother trigger than the new ones, due to the transfer bar system.

 

[CMcDermott]

The "new" Vaquero uses a smaller cylinder frame and cylinder and cannot handle the "Ruger Only" 45 Colt loads listed in the reloading manuals. It is a throwback to the old 3-screw 357 sized guns, including using the old grip frame size (XR3, instead of the later XR3-RED). It is very similar in size and shape to the Colt SAA, which is the whole point as this model's intended market is the Cowboy shooters.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

It is very similar in size and shape to the Colt SAA, which is the whole point as this model's intended market is the Cowboy shooters.

Well then, that's a very good thing because I've been looking for a "old style" but new Cowboy .45. I've been looking at Uberti, Beretta and all the other clones but I think it's come down to either a Blackhawk or Vaquero. Since the Vaquero is closer to the Colt SSA it just might be the winner... (although I would rather have adjustable sights)