Ruger Vaquero 00515 KBNVBH-34 357 Gloss Stainless Bird’s Head Revolver 2005
SOLD FOR: $1250
LSB#: 220117LJ126
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: New Vaquero (Model #00515, Catalog No. KBNVBH-34)
Serial Number: 58-94555
Year of Manufacture: 2005
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single Action Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked with a Ruger two-line warning. The left side of the frame is marked “RUGER VAQUERO® / .357 MAG CAL.”. The right side of the frame under the cylinder is marked with the serial number “58-94555”. The back of the cylinder is marked “S”. Each grip plate features an inset Ruger phoenix logo medallion.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a steel blade set into the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth black panels on a bird’s head grip frame. There are a few minor handling marks, but otherwise the grips are free of any notable wear or damage. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Gloss Stainless
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are scattered minor hairline nicks and scuffs throughout the metal and the cylinder has a turn line. The screws are sharp, the pins are unmarred, and all markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks with light play at each stop. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: The Vaquero will ship with a serial matching gray snap case, a test-fire casing, a lock, and the manual.
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, Bill Ruger had 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 only to 1993, and this example dates back to 2001. Ruger brought the Vaquero to market to meet the demands of Cowboy Action Shooters as the popularity of the sport grew. Compared to the original Single Action Army, there are a number of improvements including a coil mainspring, more robust frame and cylinder, and the improvements in metallurgy one can expect from a modern firearm. This revolver has an attractive bird’s head grip frame which is ideal for shooter’s with smaller hands, and will also conceal better than a square-butt frame. This Vaquero is in fantastic shape with a great bore, strong mechanics, and only minor handling wear. It will be a great revolver for those who want a cowboy-style sixgun and would also make a nice hunting sidearm. Good luck and happy bidding on this fine revolver!