Preview: Ruger .44 Mag. Vaquero Revolver

by
posted on January 26, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
vaqueros16np_04.jpg
Ruger single-action revolver history buffs know that years ago the Vaquero revolvers were built using a heavier frame designed to handle the pressures produced by .44 Mag. ammunition. In order to make these popular wheelguns a little smaller and lighter, the frame was traded out for a slimmed down version and the .44 Mag. option was dropped from the catalog.

For 2016 Ruger is bringing back the .44 Mag. Vaquero which will eventually be available in multiple configurations. The first gun out the gate will be a distributor special edition with a 3.75" barrel, polished stainless steel finish and a birdshead grip. More information about pricing and which distributor will have this model in stock will be available soon.

Latest

firing a musket rifle
firing a musket rifle

Today’s Makers of Yesterday’s Firearms

Original firearms from the American Revolution era are valuable and best preserved for posterity. For those who want to shoot them, several modern makers offer quality reproductions.

Left Turn (Bolt): Tikka's New Left-Handed T3x Ace Rifles

Lefties of the world unite and rejoice, as Tikka has announced left-hand versions of its award-winning T3x Ace chassis rifles.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 14, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Skills Check: Rifle Standard Delta 2

Carbine performance is all about maintaining control. The Rifle Standard Delta 2 is a drill that pressures recoil control, visual discipline and cadence as distance decreases and time compresses.

Gun Sales Up for the 7th Month in a Row in 2026

The National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) estimate of last month’s gun sales was up 2.2 percent compared to August 2025.

Caring For & Feeding Your Cap-and-Ball Revolvers

Compared to pistoleros of the 19th century, today’s handgunners have it easy. It's not enough just to get an old-school, cap-and-ball revolver. You also need to acquire everything to shoot and clean it.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.