Consecutive Pair Old Model Ruger Vaquero .45 ACP Long Colt Gloss Stainless
SOLD FOR: $3725
LSB#: 210608HT02 & 210608HT03
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Vaquero (Model #00519, Catalog No. KBNV-455X-C)
Serial Numbers: 57-45890 (HT02) 57-45889 (HT03)
Year of Manufacture (Both): 1999 (RUGER Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber (Both): .45 ACP & .45 Long Colt
Action Type (Both): Single Action Side-Gate Loaded Revolver Revolvers with interchangeable cylinders.
Markings (HT02): The left side of the barrel has a warning over “STURM, RUGER & CO. INC. SOUTHPORT CONN. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame under the cylinder is marked “RUGER VAQUERO® / .45 CAL.”. The right side of the frame under the cylinder is marked with the serial number, “57-45890”. The back of both the ACP and Long Colt cylinders are marked “S” and both are serial-matching, hand-scribed “8 9 0”. Each grip plate is marked at the top with inset Ruger phoenix medallions.
Markings (HT03): The left side of the barrel has a warning over “STURM, RUGER & CO. INC. SOUTHPORT CONN. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame under the cylinder is marked “RUGER VAQUERO® / .45 CAL.”. The right side of the frame under the cylinder is marked with the serial number, “57-45889”. The back of both the ACP and Long Colt cylinders are marked “S” and both are serial-matching, hand-scribed “8 8 9”. Each grip plate is marked at the top with inset Ruger phoenix medallions.
Barrel Length (Both): 5 1/2”
Sights/Optics (Both): The front sight is a steel blade set into the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch integral to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration and Condition (HT02): The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels. Both panels have minor use-wear, but otherwise are free of any notable wear or damage. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.
Stock Configuration and Condition (HT03): The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels. There is scant evidence of even use-wear. Both panels are free of any notable wear or damage There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish (Both): Gloss Stainless
Finish Originality (Both): Original
Bore Condition (HT02): The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp, and there is no erosion.
Bore Condition (HT03): The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but there is minor stubborn fouling in the bore near to the muzzle.
Overall Condition (HT02): This handgun retains about 97% of its stainless steel finish. There are minor scuffs scattered across the stainless surfaces with a few more notable nicks on the right side of the barrel near to the muzzle. The ACP cylinder has an intermittent faint turn-line. The Long Colt cylinder has an intermittent faint turn-line and a few light nicks. Pins are unmarred, and all markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-plus condition.
Overall Condition (HT03): This handgun retains about 96% of its stainless steel finish. There are minor scuffs scattered across the stainless surfaces with some more notable scuffing on the topstrap and a cluster of light nicks on the barrel where it meets the frame. The ACP cylinder has an intermittent faint turn-line. The Long Colt cylinder has a more distinct turn-line in between stops. Pins are unmarred, and all markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics (Both): The actions function correctly. The cylinders lock with minor play at each stop. We did not fire these revolvers. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories (Both): Each revolver includes a serial-matching black plastic Ruger factory case marked “Special Edition” in a gold cursive script, a secondary .45 Long Colt cylinder (each revolver currently has its .45 ACP cylinder installed), a security lock in a box, and assorted factory paperwork in a white envelope. Each case has light handling and storage wear with a few minor scuffs in the smooth areas. Overall, each case rates in Fine condition.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Vaquero is a fascinating revolver. In all ways that matter it is a timeless single-action revolver that evokes all manner of nostalgia for the old west, for more wild and dangerous times. But like always, Sturm, Ruger & Co. has a keen ability to recognize gaps in the market and fashion truly fine products to fill that gap. Timeless though the Vaquero may appear, it dates back only to 1993, and this consecutive pair dates back to 1999, about midway through the production history of the ‘old’ model Vaquero (in 2005, Ruger would create a new version). Both are in Fine or better condition with bright bores, interchangeable cylinders, and their original serial-matching factory cases. Good luck and happy bidding on these Fine revolvers!