Ruger Vaquero in 45 ACP

[Creeky73]

so I have a Talo edition New Vaquero arriving tomorrow, and it is chambered in 45 ACP instead of Long Colt. My question is, are there any restrictions as to what type of ammo I can use? Can I safely fire +P ammo in that size frame, and are there any particular things I need to avoid? Or can I safely use anything I can get my hands on?

Thanks in advance for any help!

[NDB_MN]

You should have no problems firing +P through it.

If you feel hesitant though, call Ruger quick and tell them the model, they'll let you know.

I have a 50th Anniversary flattop 45 ACP/45 Colt convertible Blackhawk. Same frame as your Vaquero. I shoot +P 45 ACP through it, no worries. Only thing I won't put through it are 30psi+ Ruger only 45 colt loads that are meant for the full frame Blackhawks/super blackhawks.

[cce1302]

I'd check your manual. the Vaquero was made for the .45 colt before it was made for the ACP. .45 colt is a much lower pressure round than acp. pushing the pressure even higher may not be safe if the manual does not say so.

$.02

[Creeky73]

Originally Posted by cce1302

I'd check your manual. the Vaquero was made for the .45 colt before it was made for the ACP. .45 colt is a much lower pressure round than acp. pushing the pressure even higher may not be safe if the manual does not say so.

$.02

Agreed, but it also handles .357 magnum loads, so I thought maybe it could handle some fairly hot stuff. I know it wouldn't handle any of the "Ruger Only" loads in that frame size, but Buffalo Bore makes some higher than standard pressure in .45 Colt that they say is just fine in the New Vaqs. I think the +P should be ok, but I just wanted to double check with people in-the-know.

[Creeky73]

Also, I have a question. Several, actually. Got the gun in today, and I have noticed a few things.

1. It is a stainless model, which is polished nicely, but the ejector rod shroud that goes down the length of the barrel is NOT polished. Is this normal?

2. On the basepin latch (yes, I had to read the manual to get the proper name for it), is it normal to be able to see the spring on it when everything is in the normal operating positions, or should the spring be hidden at all times? I can definitely see the spring on mine, and I am wondering if the whole latch might be sitting too far over to one side.

3. Sometimes when I am rotating the cylinder, it seems to have a hang-up spot. Then if I play with the basepin and latch a bit, it seems like it goes back to spinning ok. then later, it might go back to having some serious friction, requiring me to play with the latch again. Normal?

4. When you are slowly lowering a cocked hammer back down, is it normal for it to make a clicking sound that almost sounds like there is fine sand in the mechanism?

Sorry for all the questions, but it is my first single action and I am wondering if I am going to have to return it.

[fltbed]

Last year Brian Pearce wrote an article for Handloader magazine on the Lipsey’s flat top 45 Colt. (same frame as the newer Vaqueros) He stated his pressure tests set the working limit at 23K p.s.i. So you should have no problems with the acp +P loads that are out there.

Jeff

[fltbed]

Originally Posted by Creeky73

Also, I have a question. Several, actually. Got the gun in today, and I have noticed a few things.

1. It is a stainless model, which is polished nicely, but the ejector rod shroud that goes down the length of the barrel is NOT polished. Is this normal?
Talos may have specified it that way but it is easy to polish.

2. On the basepin latch (yes, I had to read the manual to get the proper name for it), is it normal to be able to see the spring on it when everything is in the normal operating positions, or should the spring be hidden at all times? I can definitely see the spring on mine, and I am wondering if the whole latch might be sitting too far over to one side.
Yes, you should be able to see the spring.

3. Sometimes when I am rotating the cylinder, it seems to have a hang-up spot. Then if I play with the basepin and latch a bit, it seems like it goes back to spinning ok. then later, it might go back to having some serious friction, requiring me to play with the latch again. Normal?
You probably have a small burr on the cylinder ratchet. More than likely, this will go away with use. If not, send it back.

4. When you are slowly lowering a cocked hammer back down, is it normal for it to make a clicking sound that almost sounds like there is fine sand in the mechanism?
You have to remember, these guns are not “fitted” like a Colt SAA or a USRA SAA needs to be, they are assembled from castings. (hence the price difference) As you use the gun, these parts will eventually smooth themselves up.

Sorry for all the questions, but it is my first single action and I am wondering if I am going to have to return it.

Hope this helps.

Jeff

[Creeky73]

thank you very much for both responses, you helped a lot

[richeyo2]

Pics?

[Creeky73]

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