Case Color Ruger Vaquero .357 Mag 5.5″ Single Action Revolver Pair, 2003
SOLD FOR: $1,475.00
LSB#: LSB260214CG020
LSB#: LSB260214CG021
Make: Sturm, Ruger and Co.
Model: Vaquero (00582)
Serial Number: 58-25475
Serial Number: 58-25476
Year of Manufacture: 2003 / Modern
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single Action, 6 Shot Fluted Cylinder Revolver.
(75) Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “58-25475”. The left side of the frame is marked “RUGER VAQUERO / .357 MAG. CAL”. The side of the barrel is marked, “STURM, RUGER & CO., INC. SOUTHPORT CONN U.S.A”. With a safety warning.
(76) Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “58-25476”. The left side of the frame is marked “RUGER VAQUERO / .357 MAG. CAL”. The side of the barrel is marked, “STURM, RUGER & CO., INC. SOUTHPORT CONN U.S.A”. With a safety warning.
Barrel Length: 5.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a black quarter moon blade, with a square notch in the top strap.
(75) Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece, smooth white plastic panels with inset silver Ruger medallions. There are light scratches, light scuffs, and pressure dents throughout. There are no chips and cracks. Overall the gips rate at Very Good condition.
(76) Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece, smooth white plastic panels with inset silver Ruger medallions. There are faint scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no chips and cracks. Overall the gips rate at about Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 6 round fluted cylinder for .357 Magnum.
Type of Finish: Case Color, Blued
Finish Originality: Original
(75) Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some faint stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
(76) Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some faint stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
(75) Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its finish. There is heavy holster wear, scratches, and nicks throughout. The frame retains much of its coloring with the leading edges worn and moderate spots of thinning. The cylinder has a large wide turn-line. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Good condition.
(76) Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 92% of its finish. There is heavy holster wear, scratches, and nicks throughout. The frame has lost a moderate amount of its coloring throughout. The cylinder has an wide intermittent turn-line and an engraving over one of the chambers. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: Both actions function as intended. We did not fire these handguns. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Both revolvers have stainless Super Blackhawk hammers. Both actions have been lightened.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Padded hard case, muzzle covers.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Vaquero is a modern interpretation of the classic single action revolver, designed to capture the look and handling of 19th century frontier firearms while incorporating Ruger’s robust construction and transfer bar safety system. Introduced in the 1990s, the Vaquero quickly became popular for its combination of traditional styling and modern durability. This matched pair from 2003 highlights the enduring appeal of the platform, with both revolvers chambered in .357 Magnum, a cartridge introduced in 1935 and known for its versatility, power, and ability to also fire .38 Special. The pairing of two consecutive serial numbers further enhances their presentation as a coordinated set. Both revolvers show honest use, retaining approximately 90 and 92 percent of their original finish respectively, with noticeable holster wear, scratches, and thinning across the surfaces. The case colored frames show areas of fading and edge wear, while the cylinders display pronounced turn lines, including an intermittent line and an engraved mark on one cylinder. The bores on both revolvers are bright with sharp rifling and rate 9.5 out of 10, showing only light fouling. The white grip panels on both revolvers show light scratches and pressure marks but remain structurally sound, rating in Very Good condition. Both revolvers have been fitted with stainless Super Blackhawk hammers and feature lightened actions, contributing to smoother operation while maintaining proper mechanical function.
The Vaquero platform remains well regarded for its balance, durability, and traditional operation, making it a staple among single action revolvers. This matched pair offers a cohesive presentation with shared features and configuration, reflecting both use and maintenance over time. The inclusion of a padded hard case and muzzle covers adds to the overall package. Together, these revolvers represent a functional and visually consistent set that highlights Ruger’s approach to blending classic design with modern engineering. -R.E.