The Ruger Vaquero is a single-action revolver in .357 Magnum, with an extra 9mm Luger cylinder included. It's built for cowboy action shooting but works equally well as a range gun or a working holster piece. The 4.625-inch barrel, blued alloy steel frame, and hardwood grip with Ruger medallion give it a traditional western profile without cutting corners on the mechanicals. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: Ruger Vaquero 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum (also compatible with 9mm Luger) 
• Barrel Length: 4.625 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Weight: 43 ounces (2.6875 lbs) 
• Finish: Blued Steel 
• Frame Material: Alloy Steel 
• Grip Material: Hardwood stained and polished w/ Ruger Medallion 
• Action Type: Single Action 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The transfer bar mechanism and loading gate interlock are Ruger's standard safety system on this platform — the hammer can't reach the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled, which addresses the old single-action concern about carrying a round under the hammer. The patented reverse indexing pawl and beveled cylinder streamline the loading and unloading sequence at the loading gate. 
 
The cold hammer-forged barrel provides consistent rifling and will take a lot of rounds before showing wear. Swapping to the 9mm cylinder gives access to a cheaper practice cartridge without changing the gun's handling characteristics meaningfully.

The Vaquero has a loyal following among cowboy action shooters, and most of the discussion reflects that. Users appreciate the smooth single-action trigger and the natural pointing geometry of the grip. At 43 ounces, it's on the heavier end, which cuts muzzle flip when running .357 Magnum rounds and helps with follow-through — though it's not a carry gun by most standards.

The blued finish gets consistent praise for looking good and holding up to regular handling. The dual-cylinder setup (.357 Magnum / 9mm) is popular among people who want to practice on 9mm and compete or hunt with .357 — the cylinder swap is quick and the extractor geometry works reliably with both.

Accuracy at moderate distances gets positive marks. Most owners aren't shooting at long range with a single-action revolver, and within 25-50 yards the Vaquero delivers clean, repeatable groups.

Recoil with .357 Magnum comes up as a consideration for newer shooters — not unmanageable, but snappier than the weight would suggest compared to double-action revolvers. Weight is the other recurring note for anyone thinking about carrying it on long days afield.

Pricing is generally seen as fair for a Ruger with this level of finish and mechanical quality. The historical aesthetic draws buyers who want the cowboy action look without sacrificing modern safety features.