The Ruger Vaquero is a single-action .45 Colt revolver with a high-gloss stainless steel finish and hardwood grips. Capacity is 6 rounds, barrel length is 5.5 inches, overall length is 11.12 inches, and weight is 41 oz (2.56 lbs). The transfer bar safety prevents discharge unless the trigger is fully pulled. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model Name: Vaquero 
• Caliber: .45 Colt 
• Action Type: Single Action 
• Capacity: 6 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 5.5 inches 
• Overall Length: 11.12 inches 
• Weight: 41 oz (2.56 lbs) 
• Finish: High Gloss Stainless 
• Grip Material: Hardwood 
   

Detailed Features 

1. Stainless Steel Frame: High-gloss stainless holds up to corrosion and regular use without the maintenance demands of a blued finish. 
    
2. Single Action Mechanism: The hammer must be cocked manually before each shot -- slower than double action but gives a very deliberate, precise trigger break. 
    
3. Hardwood Grips: Polished and stained for comfort and control during firing. 
    
4. Transfer Bar Safety: Blocks the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled fully, which is an important safety improvement over older single-action designs. 
    
5. Sighting System: Blade front with integral rear sight -- fixed but fast to acquire for the distances this caliber is typically shot at. 
    

Usage Scenarios 

• Cowboy Action Shooting: This is what the Vaquero was built for -- fast draws and accurate shots at steel targets. 
• Personal Protection: The .45 Colt delivers effective stopping power at close range. 
• Outdoor Adventures: A reliable sidearm for camping and hiking where the single-action format is acceptable.

The Ruger Vaquero in .45 Colt stainless draws strong appreciation from owners who care about Western-style aesthetics and single-action mechanics. The high-gloss finish looks good and the stainless construction holds up to handling without constant polishing or rust prevention.

Shooting feedback is consistently positive. The smooth action and comfortable grip make it enjoyable to run through cylinders, and the .45 Colt caliber balances power and control effectively for target shooting and cowboy action competition.

Practical concerns come up regularly. At 41 oz the Vaquero is heavy, which matters for extended wear on the range or in the field. The single-action format requires conscious operation -- some shooters prefer the faster double-action option for defensive use. Price discussions are split: buyers who value the stainless construction and Ruger build quality find it justified; others think it should be more affordable given the competition.