scott1979c

Are the New Vaquero's designed to fire Cowboy loads only or will they handle more powerful loads? Thanks

BlkHawk73

They're for any and all loads within the SAAMI specs. People have the idea that they're only for the lesser powered cowboy loads but they would need to be able to handle all loads for the standard pressure safely. Any standard, non-"Ruger-only" load would be fine. Still lots of good loads available with such levels.

Dale53

You can safely drive a 255 gr Keith SWC (Lyman 452424 or equivalent) to 850 fps with 8.5 grs of Unique (within SAAMI pressure limits). This load works well in most .45 Colts that have correct dimensions and will shoot through a horse at 100 yards (handy if you're fighting Indians). Actual US Army acceptance standards for the .45 Colt during the trials before adopting the 1873 SAA revolver demanded this.

A well placed shot with this load should take most any deer or Black Bear at reasonable ranges. Some have successfully used a comparable load on Elk, etc.

It would also make a fine self defense load.

I have both a Vaquero (large frame) and a .45 Colt/.45 ACP Convertible Black Hawk. This is my standard load. It is pleasant to shoot and can be VERY effective.

FWIW
Dale53

rclark

What Dale53 says.... That said, the New Vaquero is stronger than the original Colt. Here is some more information for your enlightenment.

Ruger’s New Vaquero Single Action Revolver

Ruger’s New Vaquero - Revisited

scott1979c

Thanks alot guys. I want a new Vaquero really bad and you just made me want one even more.