Make: Ruger

Model: New Vaquero (05156)

Serial Number: 511-29004

Year of Manufacture: 2012 (https://ruger.com/dataProcess/serialHistory/)

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action, 6 Shot Fluted Cylinder Revolver with Ejector Rod.

Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “511-29004”. The left side of the frame is marked “RUGER NEW VAQUERO / .45 ACP”. The underside of the barrel is marked with a safety warning and the Ruger Newport Address. The right side is marked, “DUTY WITH HONOR”.

Barrel Length: 3 3/4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a quarter moon blade fixed to the barrel, the rear sight is a square notch in the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth black plastic birdshead panels with silver Ruger medallions. There is no handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Polished Stainless.

Finish Originality: Original.

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 and appears to be only factory test fired.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The cylinder shows a very thin crisp turn line. The markings are clear, the pins unmarred and the screw heads sharp. Overall this pistol is in Excellent to Like New condition.

Mechanics: The actions function as intended. There is minimal side to side play of the cylinders while in lockup, and the action is very smooth. 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: Original box, test cartridge, paperwork, lock.

Our Assessment: This Ruger New Vaquero, manufactured in 2012, is a striking stainless steel single action revolver chambered in .45 ACP with the classic birdshead grip and short 3 3/4" barrel. Inspired by the Old West styling of Colt’s Single Action Army, the New Vaquero brings modern machining, transfer bar safety, and coil-spring internals to the traditional design. Ruger’s decision to chamber this model in .45 ACP adds versatility, allowing shooters to take advantage of common and affordable ammunition without sacrificing the timeless single-action shooting experience. This example is in Excellent to Like New condition, retaining approximately 99% of its polished stainless finish. The bore is pristine and bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, rating a 10/10 in this writer’s opinion. The grips are smooth black plastic birdshead panels with silver Ruger medallions, showing no signs of handling wear. The cylinder has only a faint, crisp turn line, and all mechanical components function smoothly and correctly with tight lockup. This revolver appears to have seen minimal use—likely only factory test fired—and has been exceptionally well maintained.

Whether you're a collector, cowboy action shooter, or simply an enthusiast of classic revolvers with modern reliability, this Ruger New Vaquero in .45 ACP is a stellar piece. Its short barrel and birdshead grip give it an unmistakable profile, while its smooth action and robust stainless construction make it a capable shooter. With its special markings and excellent condition, this revolver will be equally at home in a collection or as a standout companion at the range.