Ruger Vaquero 5102: An Enduring Icon of the American West Reimagined for the Modern Shooter

For those who cherish the spirit of the Old West, or seek a reliable, robust single-action revolver for sport, collection, or recreational shooting, the Ruger Vaquero 5102 in .45 Colt (LC) stands as a true testament to American craftsmanship and enduring design. This blued steel and hardwood grip masterpiece isn't just a firearm; it's a bridge to a bygone era, engineered with modern safety and manufacturing excellence. Whether you're a seasoned cowboy action shooter, a historical firearm enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a distinctive and enjoyable revolver for the range, the Vaquero 5102 offers an unparalleled experience.

What is the Ruger Vaquero 5102 and who is it for?

The Ruger Vaquero 5102 is a six-shot, single-action revolver chambered in the powerful .45 Colt cartridge, featuring a 4.62-inch blued barrel, frame, and cylinder, complemented by handsome hardwood grips. It’s Ruger's revered interpretation of the classic "peacemaker" style revolver, specifically designed to evoke the look and feel of 19th-century frontier firearms while incorporating modern safety and manufacturing advancements.

This particular model is ideally suited for:

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS) and SASS Competitors: The Vaquero is a cornerstone in the world of cowboy action shooting, revered for its traditional aesthetics, robust build, and compliance with Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) rules. Its smooth action and reliable performance make it a top choice for competitive events.
• Historical Firearm Enthusiasts and Collectors: For those who appreciate the design and history of Old West firearms, the Vaquero offers an authentic look and feel without the fragility or high cost of antique originals. It's a living piece of history that can be safely enjoyed at the range.
• Recreational Shooters and Range Enthusiasts: If you're looking for a uniquely satisfying shooting experience, the single-action operation and the powerful thud of the .45 Colt cartridge fired from the Vaquero are incredibly rewarding. It’s perfect for target practice, plinking, or simply enjoying the art of precision shooting with a classic firearm.
• Individuals Seeking a Robust and Reliable Revolver: Ruger is renowned for building exceptionally tough and durable firearms. The Vaquero is no exception, designed to withstand years of regular use with minimal wear, making it a reliable companion for any shooting activity.

Key Features and What They Mean for You: Why choose the Ruger Vaquero 5102?

The Ruger Vaquero 5102 isn't just a pretty face; it's packed with features that enhance its performance, safety, and authenticity.

Chambered in .45 Colt (Long Colt): The Legendary Cartridge

• Historical Significance: The .45 Colt cartridge is synonymous with the American West, known for its formidable stopping power and widespread use in iconic revolvers.
• Versatility: While powerful, the .45 Colt can be handloaded or purchased in various configurations, from mild target loads to more robust options, making the Vaquero adaptable to different shooting preferences.
• Recoil Management: With its solid steel frame and a weight of 40 ounces, the Vaquero effectively manages the recoil of the .45 Colt, providing a comfortable shooting experience.

4.62-inch Blued Barrel:

• Balance and Maneuverability: This barrel length strikes an excellent balance between sight radius for accuracy and overall firearm maneuverability, making it comfortable to handle and quick to point.
• Classic Aesthetic: The blued finish on the barrel, frame, and cylinder provides a deep, lustrous, and timeless appearance that perfectly complements the Vaquero’s traditional design. It’s a finish that truly embodies the spirit of classic firearms.
• Cold Hammer-Forged Construction: Ruger's barrels are cold hammer-forged, a superior manufacturing process that results in ultra-precise rifling, leading to exceptional accuracy and long-term durability. This means your Vaquero will maintain its precision for countless rounds.

6-Round Capacity Cylinder:

• Standard for Single-Actions: The 6-round capacity is traditional for single-action revolvers of this style, maintaining historical accuracy.
• Robust Steel Construction: The cylinder is made from durable steel, capable of safely handling the .45 Colt cartridge.

Patented Transfer Bar Mechanism: Unparalleled Safety

• How it Works: This is one of Ruger's most significant innovations. The transfer bar safety ensures that the hammer cannot physically contact the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. If the firearm is dropped or the hammer is struck, the gun will not fire accidentally.
• Peace of Mind: For many, this feature is a critical factor in choosing a modern single-action revolver over older designs. It allows for carrying the revolver with all six chambers loaded safely, which is a departure from the traditional "five-up, one-down" carry method often used with original single-action revolvers lacking this safety.
• Loading Gate Interlock: This additional safety feature works in conjunction with the transfer bar, preventing accidental discharge while loading or unloading.

Patented Reverse Indexing Pawl: Easier Loading and Unloading

• What it Does: This clever design feature allows for simplified loading and unloading of the cylinder. When the loading gate is open, the cylinder can be freely rotated in either direction to align chambers for easy access.
• Enhanced User Experience: This innovation significantly improves the user experience, especially for competitive shooters or those who frequently handle and reload their firearm. It eliminates the frustration of trying to perfectly align chambers that can be found in some other single-action designs.

Traditional Beveled Cylinder: Simplified Holstering

• Practical Design: The slight beveling on the front edge of the cylinder aids in smoother, quicker holstering. While a subtle detail, it contributes to the overall ergonomic design for a firearm often carried in a holster.

Traditional Western-Style, Hand-Filling Grip with Hardwood Grips:

• Ergonomics: The grip is designed to comfortably fill the hand, providing a secure and natural hold. This classic "plow handle" grip style is iconic and offers excellent control, especially during recoil.
• Aesthetics and Durability: The hardwood grips not only look stunning against the blued steel but also provide a durable and tactile surface for a firm hold. Over time, these grips will develop a unique patina, adding to the character of your revolver. The original product description mentions "rosewood" grip, which is a specific type of hardwood, adding to the premium feel and traditional appeal.

Blued Alloy Steel Frame and Cylinder:

• Robust Construction: The use of alloy steel for the frame and cylinder ensures exceptional strength and durability, built to withstand the pressures of the .45 Colt cartridge for a lifetime of shooting.
• Classic Finish: The blued finish is a timeless classic, offering both corrosion resistance and an aesthetically pleasing deep luster. It's a hallmark of traditional firearms.

Blade Front / Integral Rear Sights:

• Simple and Effective: The fixed blade front sight and integral groove rear sight are true to the historical design. This robust sight system is simple, reliable, and provides a clear sight picture for accurate shooting at typical handgun ranges. It’s ideal for quick target acquisition.

How does the Ruger Vaquero 5102 perform at the range?

Shooting the Ruger Vaquero 5102 is an experience in itself. The single-action operation requires manual cocking of the hammer before each shot, fostering a deliberate and controlled shooting cadence. The trigger pull is typically crisp and clean, allowing for precise shot placement. Recoil from the .45 Colt is noticeable but manageable, absorbed effectively by the revolver's substantial weight and the ergonomic design of the grip. Many shooters find the Vaquero's natural pointability and balance to be excellent, making it intuitive to aim and fire. It’s a firearm that encourages a methodical approach to shooting, enhancing enjoyment and skill development.

Is the Ruger Vaquero a good choice for Cowboy Action Shooting?

Absolutely. The Ruger Vaquero is arguably one of the most popular and recommended revolvers for Cowboy Action Shooting. Its traditional appearance, combined with modern Ruger reliability and the patented transfer bar safety (which allows for safely carrying all six rounds loaded), makes it an ideal choice for the sport. It meets the spirit and often the letter of SASS rules, and its robust construction stands up to the demands of competitive shooting. Many top competitors choose the Vaquero for its out-of-the-box performance and minimal need for modification.

Maintaining Your Ruger Vaquero 5102

Like all quality firearms, the Ruger Vaquero 5102 benefits from regular cleaning and maintenance. A basic cleaning kit for revolvers, including bore brushes, cleaning patches, gun oil, and solvent, is sufficient. Focus on cleaning the barrel, cylinder chambers, and the areas around the forcing cone and cylinder pin. Regular lubrication of moving parts will ensure smooth operation and longevity. Its robust design means it’s relatively easy to field strip and clean, ensuring it remains in peak condition for years to come.

Why trust Ruger?

Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc., commonly known as Ruger, is one of America's leading manufacturers of rugged, reliable firearms for the commercial sporting market. Founded in 1949, Ruger has built a reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and innovative firearms. Their commitment to superior engineering, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes like cold hammer-forged barrels, and dedication to customer safety, exemplified by their pioneering transfer bar mechanism, instills confidence in every product they make. Choosing a Ruger firearm, like the Vaquero, means investing in a legacy of excellence.

The Ruger Vaquero 5102 in .45 Colt embodies the best of both worlds: the iconic aesthetics and handling of a classic Old West revolver, coupled with Ruger's renowned durability, precision manufacturing, and essential modern safety features. It is a true heirloom-quality firearm that promises years of reliable service and immense shooting pleasure.

This exceptional revolver, UPC 736676051021, is readily available for purchase at DEGuns.com. Elevate your shooting experience and own a piece of the American frontier, reimagined for today.

Ruger Vaquero 5102 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Ruger
Model	Vaquero
Caliber	45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	6 Rounds
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Barrel Length	4.62 inches
Overall Length (OAL)	10.25 inches
Weight	40 ounces
Frame Material	Blued Steel
Frame Finish	Blued
Grips	Hardwood (Rosewood)
Cylinder Material	Steel
Cylinder Finish	Blued
Barrel Finish	Blued
Sights	Blade Front / Integral Rear
Safety	Transfer Bar
Hammer Style	Exposed
SKU/MPN	5102
UPC	736676051021