Consecutive Pair Old Model Ruger Vaqueros #00523 Cat. KRBNV-35 .357 Magnum
SOLD FOR: $2015
LSB#: 210608HT04 & 210608HT05
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Vaquero (Model #00523 Catalog No. KRBNV-35)
Serial Number: 57-81698 (HT04) 57-81699 (HT05)
Year of Manufacture (Both): 2001
Caliber (Both): .357 Magnum
Action Type (Both): Single Action Side-Gate Loaded Revolver Revolvers
Markings (HT04): 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® / .357 MAG CAL.”. The right side of the frame under the cylinder is marked with the serial number “57-81698”. The back of the cylinder is marked “S”. Each grip plate is marked at the top with inset Ruger phoenix medallions.
Markings (HT05): 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® / .357 MAG CAL.”. The right side of the frame under the cylinder is marked with the serial number “57-81699”. The back of the cylinder is marked “S”. 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 (HT04): The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels on a Bisley grip frame. There are a few dings on the right panel near the bottom. The left panel has light wear across the surface and has a lighter appearance. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good-to-Fine condition.
Stock Configuration and Condition (HT05): The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels on a Bisley grip frame. Both panels have scattered minor nicks and the right has a more notable nick at the top. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.
Type of Finish (Both): Gloss Stainless
Finish Originality (Both): Original
Bore Condition (Both): The bores are bright, the rifling is sharp, and there is no erosion in either bore.
Overall Condition (HT04): This handgun retains about 94% of its stainless steel finish. There are scattered minor scuffs throughout with some light nicks on the barrel, ejector rod housing, and grip frame. The cylinder has an intermittent faint turn-line and scattered light nicks. Pins are unmarred, and all markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine condition.
Overall Condition (HT05): This handgun retains about 96% of its stainless steel finish. There are scattered minor scuffs throughout with a few light nicks and scuffs on both sides of the frame, and there are a few minor nicks on the barrel. The cylinder has a faint turn-line between stops. Pins are unmarred, and all markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics (Both): The actions function correctly. The cylinders lock with light 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 grey plastic Ruger factory snap case, a test fire casing in a sealed envelope, a lock, and various factory paperwork including the manual. Each case has light handling and storage wear with a few minor nicks in the smooth areas. Overall, each case rates in Very Good-to-Fine condition.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Vaquero is a fascinating revolver. In all ways that matter it seems to be a classic single-action revolver that evokes all manner of nostalgia for the old west, for more wild and dangerous times. But like always, Ruger has a keen ability to find gaps in the market and target fine products to fill that gap. As classic as the Vaquero looks, it dates back to 1993, and this consecutive pair date back to 2001, late in the production history of the “old” model Vaquero (in 2005, Ruger would create a new version). Ruger brought the Vaquero to market to meet the demands of Cowboy Action Shooters as the popularity of the sport grew. Both of these revolvers are in great shape with bright bores, strong mechanics, and wear that is purely aesthetic. Good luck and happy bidding on these great revolvers!