Make: Sturm, Ruger and Co.

Model: Vaquero (00551)

Serial Number: 55-95075

Year of Manufacture: 1995 / Modern

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action Type: Single Action, 6 Shot Fluted Cylinder Revolver with Bisley style hammer.

Barrel Length: 4 5/8"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a black quarter moon blade, with a square notch in the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece simulated ivory. There is faint handling wear. There are no chips and cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent Condition.

Type of Finish: High Polish Blue

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The balance of the finish is strong throughout. There is a thin crisp turn line on the cylinder that has not gone through the finish. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. The buttstap has been bobbed at the rear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Excellent condition as custom refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Introduced in 1993, the original Ruger Vaquero answered the rapid growth of cowboy-action shooting with a fixed-sight single-action revolver combining traditional Western styling with the durable action and transfer-bar system of Ruger’s New Model Blackhawk. Unlike the smaller New Vaquero introduced in 2005, these early revolvers were constructed on Ruger’s larger frame, giving the .45 Colt chambering the substantial proportions and rugged character favored by many field shooters and custom sixgun enthusiasts.

This customized Vaquero retains about 98% of its high-polish blue refinish and is fitted with simulated-ivory grips, a Bisley-style hammer, and a bobbed buttstrap that gives the revolver a distinctive personalized profile. The grips remain in Excellent condition, the bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 10/10, and the action functions correctly. With its handy 4 5/8-inch barrel, traditional .45 Colt chambering, excellent condition, and thoughtfully executed custom features, this is an attractive working sixgun for the Ruger enthusiast or Western-style revolver collector.