The Ruger Vaquero in .45 Colt is a single-action revolver with a high-gloss stainless steel finish and a hardwood grip. It works well for recreational shooting, cowboy action competition, hunting, and home defense. The .45 Colt chambering is versatile and the 6-round cylinder keeps things simple. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model Name: Vaquero 
• Caliber: .45 Colt (LC) 
• Action Type: Single Action 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 4.62 inches 
• Overall Length: 10.25 inches 
• Weight: 40 oz (2.5 lbs) 
• Finish: High Gloss Stainless Steel 
• Grip Material: Hardwood 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The single-action mechanism requires the hammer to be cocked manually before each shot, which produces a lighter trigger pull and tends to improve shot accuracy by encouraging deliberate aim. 
 
The high-gloss stainless steel finish resists rust and wear. The hardwood grip is sized and shaped for comfortable hold without causing fatigue during longer sessions. 
 
The blade front sight and integral rear sight give a clean picture for quick target acquisition, useful in both competitive and defensive settings. The transfer bar safety prevents the revolver from firing if dropped.

Owners of the Ruger Vaquero .45 Colt Stainless mix real appreciation with a few practical notes.

The Western aesthetics and solid build get consistent praise. The stainless finish is liked for both durability and corrosion resistance. The single-action mechanism appeals to shooters who enjoy the traditional style of firearm handling, and the .45 Colt recoil is commonly described as manageable and enjoyable, especially with lighter loads for range practice.

On the practical side, some users note that the revolver is on the heavier side, which can be a factor during extended carry or long range sessions. The fixed sights and lack of adjustability are occasionally mentioned by those who prefer more modern feature sets, though this is expected for a traditional single-action design.

My Vaquero has become one of my favorite revolvers. It functions exactly as it should and shoots very well, which reinforces why I have such lasting confidence in Ruger wheel guns.