Ruger New Vaquero .45 Colt
Model: 5101
Ruger New Vaquero .45 Colt
Model: 5101
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The New Vaquero is Ruger's answer to a specific complaint about its own Blackhawk: it was too big. Ruger introduced the original Vaquero in 1993 on the large XR3-RED frame shared with the Blackhawk, but cowboy action shooters wanted something closer in size and feel to the original Colt Single Action Army. The New Vaquero arrived in 2005 on a downsized mid-frame, with grip dimensions that match the SAA almost exactly. At 40 oz and a 5.5" barrel, it carries the same general profile as the SAA but adds Ruger's transfer-bar safety so all six chambers can be loaded.
One trade-off comes with that smaller frame: the New Vaquero is NOT rated for the hot "Ruger-only" .45 Colt loads that handloaders run through the large-frame New Model Blackhawk. Standard SAAMI-pressure ammunition only. For SASS-legal cowboy action loads — typically light 200-grain cast lead at modest velocity — this is irrelevant; the gun was built for exactly that role. The fixed integral notch rear sight and rosewood grips fit SASS configuration rules out of the box, which is why the New Vaquero became the most common SASS-legal Ruger in competitive cowboy circles.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- Mid-frame sizing matches the Colt SAA in grip dimensions and feel — most period-correct cowboy action holsters fit without rework
- Transfer-bar safety lets you carry all six chambers loaded, which the original Colt SAA design does not allow
- Rosewood grips and blued finish are SASS-legal as shipped; no aesthetic modifications needed for cowboy-action matches
- Mid-frame construction is rated for standard 14,000 PSI .45 Colt only; cannot run the "Ruger-only" hot loads that the Blackhawk handles
- Fixed integral notch rear sight cannot be adjusted for different bullet weights — shooters running multiple load recipes need to compensate with hold
Category Rankings
How the Ruger New Vaquero .45 Colt ranks among full-size .45 Colt handguns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the New Vaquero rated for "Ruger-only" .45 Colt loads?
No. The New Vaquero uses Ruger's mid-frame, which is smaller and lighter than the Blackhawk's large frame. Ruger limits this revolver to standard SAAMI-pressure .45 Colt (14,000 PSI). The hot Ruger-only loads from handloaders and boutique makers like Buffalo Bore are intended for the large-frame Blackhawk, Super Blackhawk, and Vaquero (original). Running those through a New Vaquero risks frame damage and voids the warranty.
What is the difference between the New Vaquero and the original Vaquero?
The original Vaquero (1993-2005) used Ruger's large XR3-RED frame, the same one as the Blackhawk — bigger and heavier than a Colt SAA, and rated for hot loads. The New Vaquero (2005-present) uses a downsized mid-frame that matches Colt SAA dimensions more closely, in exchange for a lower pressure rating. Cowboy action shooters drove the change; they wanted a Ruger that felt like a Colt in the hand and holster, not a beefed-up alternative.
What holsters fit the New Vaquero?
Period-correct western leather holsters built for the Colt SAA with a 5.5" barrel generally fit the New Vaquero. The mid-frame grip dimensions are very close to the SAA, and most makers like Galco, El Paso Saddlery, and Mernickle build dedicated New Vaquero patterns. Holsters built for the original large-frame Vaquero will be too loose at the cylinder.
