The Ruger Vaquero is a single action revolver designed and manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co. Introduced in 1993, the original Vaquero was built on Ruger's large frame platform shared with the Super Blackhawk, providing a robust and overbuilt foundation for magnum caliber cartridges. The Vaquero was designed as a fixed sight single action revolver with traditional styling reminiscent of the Colt Single Action Army, targeting Cowboy Action Shooting competitors and shooters who preferred a classic profile without adjustable sights. Ruger subsequently introduced the Vaquero Birds Head variant, which paired a shorter barrel with a rounded birdshead style grip frame, producing a more compact revolver suited to holster carry and close range use. The birdshead grip frame offers a distinct hand feel compared to the standard plow handle configuration, with a shorter grip profile that some shooters find more natural for point shooting. The Vaquero incorporates a transfer bar ignition system, allowing the revolver to be safely carried with all six chambers loaded. The original large frame Vaquero was produced from 1993 through 2004, after which it was replaced by the smaller framed New Vaquero built on the mid frame platform.

This example is a Model 00511 manufactured in 2002, chambered in .45 Colt with a 3 3/4 inch barrel and birdshead grip frame. The barrel and cylinder are finished in a polished blue, while the frame features a color case hardened finish. The revolver is fitted with black grips, a blade front sight, and a fixed notch rear sight integral to the frame. No original box or accessories included.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
• Model: Vaquero Birds Head (00511)
• Date of Manufacture: 2002
• Caliber: .45 Colt
• Action: Single action
• Barrel: 3 3/4 inches
• Frame: Large frame, steel
• Grip Frame: Birdshead
• Finish: Blued barrel and cylinder, color case hardened frame
• Grips: Black
• Sights: Blade front, fixed notch rear
• Safety: Transfer bar
• Capacity: 6 rounds