Thoughts on the .357 Ruger Vaquero? - Possible first firearm purchase.

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sleepygreendoor@reddit

No to both. Buy either as a range toy but do not expect to ever be able to defend yourself with this unless you become proficient with firearms through hours and hours of practice or you’re holding a leprechaun hostage and he’s giving you all the luck in the world.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Hi thanks for your comment! I appreciate your opinion.

I’ve been getting 50% comments expressing enthusiasm for the sport/ hobby of shooting and the other 50% criticizing me for my choice of my first firearm being one that is “no good for self defense.”

While it may be true that the vaquero is not a “good” self defense gun… it can be used as one in such a situation. A lot of the comments I have been getting have been quite concerned saying things like “why would you even buy a gun if not to shoot somebody in self defense?”

Although I never had a firearm in my household, I would shoot often enough and was thought importance of firearm safety and respect. I grew up shooting, though not competitively, for enjoyment and sport… not to be worrying about the right application in the event of self defense.

My family back in Ohio only owns revolvers and bolt action rifles. This is why I have no yearn to own a semi- auto handgun.

To wrap things up… The reason why I have been contemplating the purchase of a firearm is to mark an accomplishment/ achievement in my life and to pay homage to the firearms I grew up shooting.

I’ve graduated college and I have a really good job that allows me to be able to purchase “expensive toys” not “the best weapon to harm someone.”

That’s my perspective and I would love to continue this conversation and k ow your opinion! :)

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Economy-Dog6306@reddit

Ruger single actions are fine inexpensive starter guns. As your budget and taste evolve you will discover Smith and Wesson and 1911s.

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kiakosan@reddit

Why do you have your heart set on single action though. They make da/sa revolvers. I actually think a double action revolver is a fine first gun or even a carry piece. If you don't have the time to train with a semi auto pistol it could be worse for novice shooters in a self defense scenario as you can induce a malfunction by limp wristing and sometimes just bad luck or ammo. Revolvers don't have stove pipes and at least in my experience really don't jam as often as a semi auto. You also don't have to worry about hitting your finger on the slide, and snub nose revolvers can get downright tiny and light.

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Yosemite97@reddit

I think most people will try and steer you away from a single action revolver for self defense. It’s almost unheard of to use a SA revolver as a self defense pistol in 2025. GP100 is much better choice if you are dead set on a revolver for SD. I would argue that both are pretty bad choices but you do you!

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Got it. Self defense certainly not my #1 priority because I’m not ever planning on carrying it on my person. I guess my thought process is that if it came to it and someone was breaking into my house… one well placed shot would probably immobilize someone with a .357.

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big_nasty_the2nd@reddit

You should look up the statistics on how many shots cops actually land when getting into a shoot out… there are no “well placed shots” in a gun fight

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OG_Fe_Jefe@reddit

I suppose everyone is forgetting that shootout in the mall where a guy used a pistol at distance to engage the combatants?

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big_nasty_the2nd@reddit

Yes you should practice at all ranges, but when statistics show that a vast majority of shootings happen at very close distance then you should probably practice for what happens more often first…

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OG_Fe_Jefe@reddit

Do you practice shooting within reaching distance of a target?

Most shootings begin within 5 yards.

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big_nasty_the2nd@reddit

Did you read my last comment? Did you read literally any part of it?

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OG_Fe_Jefe@reddit

Literally.

Read every part.

Unless you're using a private range, I have serious doubts upon your practicing at touching distance.

You practice how you think best, and I'll keep doing what I'm doing. So far it's worked great for me.

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big_nasty_the2nd@reddit

Jesus Christ that’s what I’ve been saying the entire time bro… figure out how to follow along in a conversation

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Gunner4201@reddit

Well place shots in a self-defense situations are very rare, even pros spray and pray sometimes.

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surelynotjimcarey@reddit

I want you to purge “one well placed shot” from your mind. Hopefully if you train a lot and the training comes through, that’s how it would go, but in real life shootings only 20-50% of shots land. “Prepare for the worst, hope for the best” you should really be prepared to miss 4/5 shots, and even when that 5th shot does hit, you should be prepared to hit your target more. You simply haven’t been on the internet long enough if you believe it won’t take more than one shot. There’s many examples and videos of people being shot up to 9 times, some of which still survive with immediate treatment. I personally know someone who took two rounds of .40 in the same lung and survived.

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ElGranLechero@reddit

A visual I like to use is "If you had a 3/8ths drill bit-- where, how deep, and how many times would you have to put that in someone's to kill them? Now how about to stop them?"

I think it was Lucky Gunner, but someone ran a ballistics test showing that until you get up to .45acp, the wound cavity left from a bullet is not much larger than the ammunition itself. Even then, .45 wasn't much bigger.

I found it to be a helpful allegory to give context to newer shooters, and also those who believe in the established myths.

Pistols suck at stopping people. Will they die? Likely. Right now? Maybe.

It is highly likely, even with training, that the situation ends in a draw. And if we're taking guns and knives, a draw means you both die.

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Waflstmpr@reddit

Going with what the other posters have said, look a little into the Miami Dade shooting. Federales, with revolvers and a few semi-auto handguns struggled to land hits at close distances. While alot of this can be attributed to being under fire by superior firepower (Mini-14 vs. Handguns), these we experienced agents, with several years of experience, and alot of practice shooting. While you may not be interested in more modern semi-auto handguns, it may be a wise choice to buy a cheap, reliable glock or other pistol, for the superior capacity of rounds.

Even with considerable practice shooting, it is very difficult to make accurate hits, while pumped full of adrenaline, and in a fast-paced, violent situation.

Think about it, and consider your safety first. A Ruger Vaquero is a fine revolver, and you will love owning it. But you may learn to love having a Sig P365, or a Glock 43X as well. Sometimes you just have to try them out.

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Orange_fury@reddit

Everyone else has already said it, but Im going to pile on. “One well placed shot” only happens in the movies- when your nerves are going and adrenaline is amped to 11, it’s a whole different thing than a casual day at the range. Even if you were to place 6 shots on target, there’s plenty of videos of people strung out on meth taking a whole magazine without realizing they were hit. Additionally, “one well placed shot” implies a head shot, which is an incredibly small target to hit (one that’s moving, no less)- in a self defense scenario, you need to be aiming for the biggest target you can, which is going to be central body mass.

I’m not trying to be a dick, but you need to realize how unrealistic the scenario you presented is in a life or death situation.

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Dak_Nalar@reddit

lol.... no

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Vercingetorix4444@reddit

Adding this to what others have said for clarification: many of the points they touched are valid, but you should bear in mind that the overwhelming majority of gunfights are over after 3 shots or less. So no, you don’t need enormous magazines, nor you really need to know fast reloading techniques for self defense.

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SniperSRSRecon@reddit

One shot kill is for snipers only. You need to be prepared to fire multiple shots accurately and in quick succession. You also need to train how to reload quickly too. Single action revolvers only have 2 uses in modern times: range toy and western shooting competitions. Get the gp100.

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SomeIdioticDude@reddit

Good luck with that one well placed shot with those sights from the 1800's. Good luck making a follow up shot too, hopefully the bad guy doesn't get to you before you can cock the gun and aim again. The GP100 is the clear winner before you even consider how long it takes to reload the guns.

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Illustrious-Prize-16@reddit

If you can hit them lol. Get a 9mm Glock with a mounted flashlight for home defense. Or a pump action shotgun like the 590 that is customizable with light mounts. Get this as a range toy, there’s a reason we made semiautomatic handguns and didn’t stick with these forever.

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darkstar1031@reddit

Could you sort of explain why you are against single action revolvers for self defense? Seemed to work just fine in the old west, and .357 magnum packs way more punch than any 9x19, due to being the same bullet with more powder behind it.

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Yosemite97@reddit

They are heavy, slow to reload, and slow to shoot (require cocking hammer in between each shot). They worked fine in the old west because everyone had single action guns. Yeah .357 packs a punch no doubt...but average shooters aren't very good at controlling the recoil so they shoot worse than with a modern 9mm semi auto pistol. Plus quicker follow up shots and higher capacity with a 9mm handgun.

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kiakosan@reddit

I agree on the single action part, but I will challenge you on revolvers in general. I have a little air weight snub nose 38 that I can carry in pretty much anything and it's so light I barely notice anything. Yeah a 9mm would probably be more ideal but it's probably gonna weigh more and be less reliable. If I have a failure to feed or a stove pipe it's probably going to take maybe a second to clear, and if I need to use a gun that might be very dangerous. Plus due to size and weight in more inclined to actually carry it, and any gun is way better than no gun.

Now if it's winter I can carry my Glock 19 with me, but it weighs way more. In the summer it's harder and you can't just pocket carry a Glock like you can a little snubby

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11448844@reddit

so if your lil airweight has trouble with timing, now what? what if the cylinder binds? "oops i'm fucked?"

or more than likely, "it is so unlikely that would happen yadda yadda"

yeah same with a semi-cared-for Glock 19. if you have a failure to feed with a Glock 19, you either didnt lube it after 1k+ rounds or you've never cycled that ammo in the first place. it would be most certainly fully user error

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kiakosan@reddit

Never had issue with the revolver having a failure to fire after hundreds of rounds, and it is way lighter and easier to carry than the Glock. I've had ammo issues before with the Glock, not common but it can happen. The bigger issue is the small revolver weighs way less and it's small enough I can carry it pretty much anywhere. If a gun is too big or weighs too much people will be less likely to carry at all, and when a derringer is better than not carrying any gun

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11448844@reddit

all it takes is the one time. i've had about 10k-12k through my 3 different wheelguns and I've only had like........ 3? 4? probably 3? malfunctions with the gun between two... but one, the 66 Combat Magnum) worked great until the first time it messed up. now it's a jam-o-matic that is 10x harder to remediate than a semi auto. (still need to send it back)

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kiakosan@reddit

That's fair, but semi autos can jam as well as most people that don't practice often with their firearms might not be able to clear a failure to fire quickly enough in a self defense situation. You also can't induce failure to fire by limp wristing a revolver and can't injure yourself with the slide side revolvers don't have slides.

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11448844@reddit

the downsides of a semi auto are simply not substantial enough to discount them over a revolver

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kiakosan@reddit

I think it depends on the person and the use case. I think there are even use cases for derringers, as having a gun is better then not carrying one at all. Many micro semis have kinda crappy grips whereas snubby revolvers have in my opinion better grips and you can get custom ones built around your hand dimensions. If you don't have the time or money to train a whole lot, it's hard to go wrong with a DA revolver that's just point shoot gun goes bang with minimal cleaning needed

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11448844@reddit

if someone doesn't train or shoot a whole lot, there isn't any cleaning needed, and many micro guns in 2025 have a grip that prints as much as an airweight when carried on the belt line... if someone is unlikely to clean, shoot, or maintain their gun, they are quite unlikely to form-fit a grip for carry

if you want to talk pocket carry, then yes, revovler all the way

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kiakosan@reddit

That is specifically what I'm talking about, I pocket carry my air weight all the time. Is it ideal? Probably not, but il post COVID I just wear clothes without belts way more often.

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11448844@reddit

pocket carry is great if that's all you got and do. I don't carry with a belt the old fashioned way so i get it

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Ill_Procedure_4080@reddit

I'll more easily accurately and quickly put rounds on target with the semi auto 9 then the single action 357

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darkstar1031@reddit

And if you lack the skill to make effective shot placement, the ability to put multiple rounds on target might be important for you. Some of us train to task and know how to make sure 1 shot is enough.

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Waflstmpr@reddit

Im sure you think that youll John Wayne that crackhead with a knife in one shot. Or that roadrager with a glock.

Reality is, youll likely miss, due to an adrenaline dump and mag dump (cylinder dump?) around the target like most people do. Training at a range or with a shot timer, is one thing, experiencing it in real life is alot different.

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darkstar1031@reddit

After 7.5 years in the Army, two of those years in the two way shooting range in Afghanistan, I'd sure hope I wouldn't choke now.

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11448844@reddit

yeeaah i wouldn't put our training in so high regard man. similar experience as you but with more TIS, more time downrange both AFG and Iraq, AND much more ammo down-range than you... M class USPSA CO, bill drill from concealment sub 1.5s everyday... I wouldn't say that I'm not as ready as I can be to put someone down in one shot but I would be as massive fucking fool to overestimate my skill in life or death here at home

what's your 1st shot par time from holster? does it 100% cause instant incapacitation every time, which btw is basically only the T-box? Can you do it under time constraint? while being filmed? if you can't say with certainty that you can do all of that consistently under 1s you are not ready

it's different here man. we can't afford to miss, we can't afford to draw too early or late, we have no backup, and our govt is against us defending ourselves... I would say as politely as I can: get over yourself or you will regret it. you are not as good as you think you are... and neither am I or anyone. humility will save our lives

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igotbanneddd@reddit

Do you practice alot with the single action .357?

more or less as fast as a 9mm

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Dak_Nalar@reddit

That is still no where near as fast as a semi auto 9mm and that kid has clearly spent hundreds if not thousands of hours training which is more than what 99% of people will do.

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11448844@reddit

lets not forget that's what he's shooting is either a .22 or wax loaded .357. he's not going to be doing that with full power loads

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11448844@reddit

that's a .22 or wax load .357. he's not going to be doing that with full power loads

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darkstar1031@reddit

I sure do. He might not be able to empty all six shots into the 10 circle at 15 yards in rapid succession but I sure can.

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Palehorse67@reddit

Riding horses across the United States worked well in the old west too. But we have cars now. If you are going up against someone with a SA 7 shot revolver while they are using a semi automatic with 15+ rounds is foolish. They can quickly reload within a few seconds, meanwhile you might as well be packing power on your muzzle loader lol.

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darkstar1031@reddit

All I'm hearing is a whole lot of "I don't have the skill to do that and as a result I don't believe anyone can do it."

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Palehorse67@reddit

Not everyone is a formula 1 race car driver. So for the average everyday person. It's dumb.

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darkstar1031@reddit

I mean, I'm not exactly Jerry Miculek, but I can pull 6 round groups in about the same amount of time with my Vaquero as I can with my Beretta 92FS. I might have about 20,000 rounds down range between the two of them, on a roughly 2/1 basis favoring the Beretta because ammo is cheaper and it's what I carried in the Army.

I can understand when you've only shot off a thousand rounds ever that putting a 6 round group in a 6 inch circle at 15 yards can be difficult, but after 20,000 rounds it's basically muscle memory now. And, really, a 6 inch group is kinda too easy. I regularly train with a series of 6 inch targets on a larger paper target at 15 yards and I try as best I can to put one round on each target and try to select targets at random just to make sure I really am drilling down on fundamentals to get more consistent. So, for example, I might arrange 6 inch targets into two columns of 3 each. And I might start a drill with one round on each target and move to the next. So top left, center right, bottom left, top right, center left, bottom right, top left bottom right top right bottom, center left, center right, top right, bottom left, and so on and so on and so on until I've burned a full box of ammo. I've got a few wheelguns. For the Smith Model 29 and the old Dan Wesson .357 I try to have all the ammo preloaded into speed loaders, or moon clips. For the Vaquero I try to use those rubber speed strips. For the beretta, I have a full box of ammo loaded into magazines filled to various levels of full so I can also drill on reloads and I'll load snap caps in randomly to drill on clearing malfunctions.

And, there's nothing special about me, and I'm not even that good. With enough practice, literally anyone can get a lot better than me. It's why I just don't understand why people struggle with the shoot test for a concealed carry license. Some states don't even require you to shoot at 15 yards, instead opting for a maximum of 10 yards and some of these folks struggle to hit the outer ring at 10 yards. It's really not that hard.

And before you talk about real combat shooting, I've been to Afghanistan twice, I know all about combat stress. The solution for that problem is drilling until it's muscle memory.

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zilvia891@reddit

+1

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

?

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ForQueenandCountry82@reddit

Why is this being downvoted? Seriously guys

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Provia100F@reddit

That means they agree with the above comment

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mcnastytk@reddit

Yea op needs to go buy a glock 19 get some training then buy a revolver.

Also gp100 is g19 of revolvers so there's that.

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Testament42@reddit

Probably because were not even a month into 2025 so those unheard of self defense uses are going to be really low for the average of 2025 already

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Adventurous-Chef-370@reddit

My first gun was a single action .36 black powder revolver and it’s still probably my favorite gun I own. However a single action for self defense is just silly. You can get a good 9mm semi-auto for the same money.

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Dumpster_Diver@reddit

I freaking love single actions and have a bunch. Would i use it for self defense? Yeah. Wouldnt be anywhere near top of my list though. They are dope and if i was hiking id consider taking one just for the coolness feeling, but otherwise Glock is what i want

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skippythemoonrock@reddit

My 1847 walker would absolutely send someone to the shadow realm but there's no way I'd ever use it for self defense.

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Adventurous-Chef-370@reddit

My next leather project is going to be a chest rig and holster for my Uberti 1860 Army to take hiking/hunting!

Other than that the only way I’d consider using it for self defense over my 9mm is if I had it capped and loaded and didn’t have a loaded mag for my 9.

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Ornery_Secretary_850@reddit

Less.

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Trainmaster111@reddit

Not a bad revolver. Single Action revolvers aren't the best choice for self defense as the high stress and limited time window in such scenarios can make the action of cooking the hammer a death sentence.

However they are quite reliable and would make a solid starter.

But if self defense revovler is your goal go for a double action like the GP100.

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keyscottrell@reddit

I think deep down we all love the idea of being a John Wayne or Clint Eastwood character and drawing big iron on a bad guy! But! When your life or the lives of loved ones are on the line... that's a poorly thought out fantasy.

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The_captain_70@reddit

The Vaquero in .45 Long Colt was the first handgun I ever purchased around 30 or so years ago. It is definitely a cool, nostalgic and fun to shoot gun. I grew up on a ranch, and there was a lot of western and cowboy history in our family so I too romanticized that style of gun a great deal. I still have it, along with two Springfield XD 9’s, a Glock 27 and an Sig P320 X with a Vortex red dot. Overall, I enjoy shooting my autos more for tactical and practical purposes, and my Sig is whats on my nightstand for home defense if I need it. But, if the Vaquero is the gun you want, then do it. I’ve never regretted buying mine. It probably won’t be your last gun and if you decide to go concealed carry at some point, which you obviously can’t really do with a Vaquero, then you can look to acquire something additional that will suffice for that. Just my $0.02 worth…

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UnitCell@reddit

I have a Vaquero in 45 LC, and I love it. I will take it into the woods, on my hip, for self defense purposes. It is an extremely high quality revolver that feels and shoots very nice.

Some things you need to know, though. It won't shoot true to aim from the factory. I had to adjust the front sight using a file. This is a lengthy and careful process. After that, I took it to my gunsmith for some minor refinishing for the look. This isn't such an issue on a hobby piece, but on a utility firearm I wouldn't know if I'd opt for that.

Also, the sights are just plain fixed and will just be bare metal. No fibers, colored dots or anything like that. I have a friend whose eyes are starting to go bad a bit and he had serious trouble with the sights.

Having written that, yes, I'd feel comfortable using it for self defense. I have carried it in the woods, and would not hesitate to put it next to my night stand. It does have modern safety features. You can load the cylinder without manipulating the hammer, like on the original Colt SA. Also, the Vaquero has a transfer bar. While it won't shoot true to aim from the factory (poor accuracy), it will be as precise as any modern handgun.

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MArkansas-254@reddit

My first weapon was a 357 revolver and I’m quite happy with the decision. It is still my primary carry gun and I’m quite comfortable with it. That said, I would suggest a DA/SA over a SAO if you plan on using it for defense. Over the long haul, I think you would be happier with the DA, but that’s just one man’s opinion. Best wishes for the new adventure. 👍

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Abuck59@reddit

Unless you’re wedded to Single Action I’d choose a GP100 4 inch .38/.357

Good all use tank that will last a lifetime , can shoot 2 different rounds , good for home defense or camping , just right sight radius.

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MArkansas-254@reddit

This! 👍

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Leo_Sultanian@reddit

I’ve tried one out before and they’re Great Revolvers One in 45 ACP and one in .357 I believe with good and enough training it could be viable for self defense

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ToshrioKago@reddit

The moment the Ruger Vaquero was back on guns.com about 3 or 4 years ago I bought it. I love my .357 vaquero and is probably my favorite single action I own. I have 4 other “Colt” clones and I’ve had minor issues with all except one but my vaquero hasn’t had a hiccup once. I also didn’t clean it for a long time and it never gave me any issues but you should pretty much always clean them when you get done shooting them. When I first got It I even concealed carried it for a long time just cuz I wanted too. If that’s what you want dude then just get it. You will never ever regret it down the road. Personally I carry a gun every time I leave my house and 98% of the time in an auto loader, but I know you said you weren’t gonna carry it so just do what you want and that gun will do everything you want it to do a single action is always 100% cooler than any other gun.

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JLewis7141@reddit

Also these SAA fixed sight pistols hardly ever shoot exact point of aim…. A rear adjustable sight is a real help…. Otherwise your stuck compensating for a gun that shoots 6” high and 2.5” right lol

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Gunner4201@reddit

My personal feeling is that everybody needs a rifle a pistol and a shotgun. If you just want the revolver for plinking go for it but if you want a good self-defense weapon start with a basic Glock There is a reason that so many police forces used them cheap and effective and fairly accurate that being said that revolver is good for range day but not so much for self defense.

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Muahd_Dib@reddit

Do you just like historic guns? If so, go for it. I prefer the colt navy models look.

But if you’re wanting it for like functionality, I’d say don’t get this. Idk why you don’t like semi-auto’s… but if you want something for home defense and a revolver; it should be double action.

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Crawfisha@reddit

I think a hippoint would be a better self defense gun

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Ornery_Secretary_850@reddit

GP100 for one reason, adjustable sights.

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Klutzy_Technician248@reddit

Dont get this. If you really want a revolver, buy one that is double action, WITH a swingout cylinder for easier reloading.

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Excuse-Fantastic@reddit

.357 revolver as your first?

Don’t do it. Or do, it’s your $, but seriously…

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Billybob_Bojangles2@reddit

If you get a SAA make sure you are safe with it. I constantly fiddle with mine doing spins and fanning the hammer. If you are going to keep it loaded for home defense, then you can't be doing that stuff. Especially since you didn't grow up around guns, make safety a priority.

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No_ThatGuy@reddit

Fun tip. I reloaded some spent casings with crushed walnut and a bullet measured out to the same weight as a love round and painted them white to train with so the weight is consistent and you can't get hurt

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No_ThatGuy@reddit

I really like my .357 Vaquero, it's a little big to conceal but not impossible. Most don't like single action for defense but I've put hundreds of rounds through mine and spent 8-10 hours a week for the last 6 years practicing my draw and fanning with it so I'm comfortable in that regard. However the reload is a might slow so you have to make the first 6 rounds count.

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JohnT36@reddit

I have a SAA pattern revolver similar to the vaquero, I'd never pick it up for anything remotely defensive. I bought it as a "range toy" and that's all it will ever be used for.

Sure it's a beautiful and very well made revolver and I love shooting it, but it will get me killed in a self defense situation

Where i live most burglars and thugs carry full auto Glocks with switches, I'm not fighting a group of armed thugs with my Clint Eastwood ass wheel gun.

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stchman@reddit

The GP100 Match Champion would be a great choice.

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Tism_Workshop@reddit

Unpopular opinion get what ever one you want… fuck it get both!!! I have a gp100 in the 6in model and love it. Likely hood of you needed to use your firearm in a defensive situation is low.

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whatnametho@reddit

Rule #1 get the FUCK out of california if you want firearm freedom. States like ca care more about protecting criminals than legal firearm owners.

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Tactical_Epunk@reddit

I genuinely cannot believe this is real.

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ReactionAble7945@reddit

For a first firearm, I think you need to find somewhere that will allow you to shoot a gun that is like it. I mean, it sounds like you have shot before, but not these guns, these grips. I think you may find that you may love one and not the other. The two guns you have selected are very different in the hand and shooting.
I think Ruger makes good guns. They have had reliable tech support in the past as I heard online.
The GP100 is a decent gun, but I didn't like the grips in comparison to S&Ws and bought S&Ws. I have not googled up that guns, but you should and read all the reviews. 629, 686, 649 and grandfather's 32S&W long.
I almost bought a Vaquero. There are at least two different versions. At the time I went to get the Vaquero, I was just at the beginning of the new version. The previous version was robust. People were loading the 45Colt to 44mag levels. The gun could take it. Then Ruger decided to make it lighter. No one wanted to push the limits any more.

4.1. I decided for me converting an 1858 into a 45Colt/45ACP was something I wanted to do. I enjoy it, but have shot it a lot less than planned because my life changed about that time. I have a 6 shot and if you need more, you are pretty screwed for self defense. They load slow. I also found that shooting cow boy the gun is designed to go up in the grip. So there is some readjust with every round. I am sure I could get better with practice, but... I did find out that I liked the 22LR conversion cartridges. I have spent a day at the range shooting 22LR out of it and it is just fun and I am slow from the draw. If you get the Vaquero, really consider getting it in 45Colt and then some of the 22lr conversion bullets. Heck they even make some 9mm conversions also.

4.2. There are other options in the old west. A true peacemaker clone is in my future. I don't want any modern stuff on it. This is all about a fun range gun.

4.3. I think if you plan on using a SA, slow reload gun, I would have 2. Not that I think 5-6 shots isn't enough, but I would be more confident with 10-12 shots, vs. a slow reload, unable to quickly top off.......

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AlphaTangoFoxtrt@reddit

I am not interested in shotguns, rifles or semi-automatic handguns at all. I have always the idea, look, feeling and shooting experience of revolvers and other wheel guns.

Ok, I'm gonna be blunt with you.

This is fucking dumb.

A gun is not a fashion accessory. A gun is a tool. You live in CA< so you're stuck with conceal carry. Conceal carrying a full size single action revolver is going to be a pain in the ass, and uncomfortable as hell.

You're limited to 6 rounds, reloading is a non-option for single actions like this. .357 magnum is too much for home defense due to over pen, though you could down-load and use .38 SPL.

That said A gun beats NO gun. So if you're dead set on this, it's better than not having a gun. But this isn't a video game. This isn't a movie. You're not the main character. You don't have plot armor.

Gimping your capabilities for the sake of fashion is absolutely pants-on-head stupid.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

I appreciate your honesty and your opinion! Maybe I didn’t do a good enough job explaining my experience with firearms maybe it’s the fact that I live in California or the fact that I didn’t grow up in a household with guns, but just to make things clear, obviously I’m no John wick, but I only grew up shooting .357 magnums and Bolt action rifles.

Since I don’t plan on carrying it on my person at all, there’s no reason why I shouldn’t buy kind of gun I’m used to. IMO you would only carry a gun for “fashion” if you’re actually carrying it on you.💀 This gun would be for me. Not for you. And it would be for the range and lastly for self defense… because like you said a gun is better then no gun.

I was more asking your guys opinion of the gun it self but I see I kinda worded it wrong.

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Material_Victory_661@reddit

It's a good firearm, better than the 1873 it's modeled after. .357 is good all-around caliber.

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AlphaTangoFoxtrt@reddit

Since I don’t plan on carrying it on my person at all, there’s no reason why I shouldn’t buy kind of gun I’m used to.

Or, you could get an objectively BETTER gun, and then train with it.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Maybe!

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DrAKC2A@reddit

Bad move. Its a great gun, but as a first purchase for self defense....no. The GP100 is a better choice if you want to have fun and use it for self defense. The LCRx is a good choice as well as it conceals better than the GP100.

Finally, if you really want a wow factor revolver, take a close look at the Chiappa Rhino.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Whatever my first firearm is… my purchase will not be for self-defense. It will be for range shooting and to Mark an achievement in my lifetime.

I’ve certainly got a lot of comments similar to what you’re saying here so I am actually considering other calibers like 9 mm or a 45 revolvers. I’m even looking at some 22lr pistols in the mean time too!

As far as the wow-factor goes, I wouldn’t be purchasing any gun to satisfy somebody else else’s tastes. I would only be purchasing it to satisfy when I enjoy when shooting!

Also, I really don’t like the rhino :( it shoots good and manages the recoil well but isn’t timeless enough for my taste!

Thanks for your comment! Cheers

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DrAKC2A@reddit

Ok.....if thats the case, Chiappa Rhino, since it shoots from the lower cylinder has a recoil impulse unlike anything else on the planet. If you want a gun for range fun, take a look at 10mm, the best mm, imo.

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SiegfriedArmory@reddit

I would highly advise avoiding single action for your first gun if self-defense is a consideration. While it is possible to be very skilled with SA pistols, the evidence shows that under stress, all but the most skilled and well trained shooters effectively forget how their gun works in a fight, which is why jams/malfuctions easy to fix on a static range get people killed: you can't figure it out while your adrenaline is up.

If you forget under stress to cock your single action, you won't figure it out immediately like you would on a range, you'll be freaking out because your gun isn't going bang when you pull the trigger, and it will take you 10x longer than normal to figure out why because your brain will be completely overloaded. Anyone who thinks "I'm better than this biological fact" is not just overconfident, but ignorant. The biggest issue with single action revolvers is that they effectively "malfuction" before every shot including the first one, if you're hyped up on adrenaline and forget there is more to the gun than "trigger go bang" (which you will). This is why all police departments and militaries 100+ years ago switched to double action revolvers pretty much immediately after they were invented and never looked back.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Thanks! I appreciate what you have to say. But it certainly wouldn’t be for self-defense as its primary purpose. It would spend most of its time shooting at a range.🤷‍♂️

I’ve only ever shot one single action revolver, and loved it… it’s been a while. I think it was a 38 special or a 45 colt I can’t remember. Whatever it was, it was a joy to shoot at the range.

.357 magnums are my favorite round to shoot period and I was just wondering if the 357 version of this single-action was worth it or if I should get the GP 100!

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Science-Compliance@reddit

I really don't understand the mindset of buying a lethal weapon for "vibes" purposes unless you already have one to serve its intended useful function. You're just now moving out of your parents' house and you want to get an expensive, dangerous toy? Not something I can get behind. If your mindset was more practical, I would be more supportive.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Hi thanks for your comment! I appreciate your opinion.

I’ve been getting 50% comments expressing enthusiasm for the sport/ hobby of shooting and the other 50% criticizing me for my choice of my first firearm being one that is “no good for self defense.”

While it may be true that the vaquero is not a “good” self defense gun… it can be used as one in such a situation. A lot of the comments I have been getting have been quite concerned saying things like “why would you even buy a gun if not to shoot somebody in self defense?”

Although I never had a firearm in my household, I would shoot often enough and was thought importance of firearm safety and respect. I grew up shooting, though not competitively, for enjoyment and sport… not to be worrying about the right application in the event of self defense.

My family back in Ohio only owns revolvers and bolt action rifles. This is why I have no yearn to own a semi- auto handgun.

To wrap things up… The reason why I have been contemplating the purchase of a firearm is to mark an accomplishment/ achievement in my life and to pay homage to the firearms I grew up shooting.

I’ve graduated college and I have a really good job that allows me to be able to purchase “expensive toys” not “the best weapon to harm someone.”

That’s my perspective and I would love to continue this conversation and k ow your opinion! :)

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DashJackson@reddit

I own a super redhawk and several blackhawks, I've also handled and shot both the vaquero in 44mag and gp100 in 357 and honestly I don't think there's a wrong choice to be made when it comes to ruger revolvers. Flip a coin, heads it's double action, tails is single action. While the coin is in the air, whichever one find yourself hoping it lands on...ignore the coin and buy that one.

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Science-Compliance@reddit

Okay, well you seem pretty level-headed about it even if I don't fully agree with your reasons. I agree with the people saying you should get a revolver capable of double action if you decide to go that route, for practicality reasons. The first gun I bought was primarily for recreational purposes, too, but it having a self-defense application and just being pretty versatile was part of the decision-making process in "pulling the trigger". It was a 12-gauge shotgun. I got rid of that one a while back but have a concealable 9mm semi-auto handgun now since I had a perceived potential need for such a piece. I do shoot "for fun" sometimes, but it's primarily a tool to defend myself, and range trips are mostly centered around building proficiency. Anyway, safe shooting.

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popejp51@reddit

I have three Vaqueros, two in .45 Colt and one in .357/.38

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Jeremy_5mith@reddit

Brother if you really dont care about doing anything besides going to the range with a revolver you might as well just save the money and get a .22 if you plan on doing nothing anyway. If you want to be serious about self defense and being able to protect yourself and your family, then maybe you should just drop the revolver western gunslinger hero shtick you seem to be day dreaming about (which i sorta get i have a .357 too), and get a glock 19 (which idc what anyone says, as far as handguns thats the perfect first gun)

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divok1701@reddit

I mean, I probably am grabbing the 1872 Open Top .38sp over the TX22 pistol...

Unless you really think the 16 rounds of .22lr is better than the 6 rounds of 38 special...

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bullpee@reddit

Buy the Vaquero. You are excited about it, and you will be scratching the itch. I think you will regret not going for the one you covet.

I also think that it will not be your last purchase. You can get .22lr version to cheaply plink, and maybe add a lever action rifle in .357 and .22 , then a more modern revolver, whatever floats your boat.

If your main concern was self defense, then sure get the tool that gives you the best chances of survival, even if you stick with a revolver.

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lil__squeaky@reddit

honestly if i where you id get 2 guns, a revolver for fun and semi automatic handgun for SD. if you absolutely insist in a revolver for defense grab a double action.

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constantwa-onder@reddit

Rugers are solid.

A Ruger Blackhawk has adjustable sights, I'd choose that over the Vaquero.

If you want a first gun to enjoy for range use, I'd heavily consider a 22lr, there's several nice ones that copy the Colt Single Action Army design.

Taylor's & Co makes nice looking ones if you want a reproduction. Hell, even a Ruger Old Army if you wanted a cap & ball revolver.

But if there's any chance of defensive use, it's the wrong tool. You'll want to at least be familiar with semi auto's. With a lot of practice, a newer style revolver is useful for defense. But semi autos have too many benefits over revolvers to ignore.

My first pistol was a 6" Blackhawk in .357, it had a use for hunting and range use. That was before CCW was an option.

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Snakeguy26@reddit

You night want to take a look at uberti they make very good revolvers among other western-style firearms.

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45acpbecause@reddit

Fixed sights. The Blackhawk has adjustable sights.

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co1945611@reddit

Ngl this is a strange choice for a first firearm. Not knocking it, but have you considered a carry sized revolver or something a bit more practicable? I've heard good things about the Ruger LCR series.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

I certainly agree with you! It’s very unconventional but it’s not something I would ever take out of the house unless at a shooting range or something or that nature. I have no interest in carrying a firearm on me so having a compact revolver never really crossed my mind.🤷‍♂️

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Mayes041@reddit

Lotta people getting bent out of shape that it's not a good self defense handgun. Sure that's true. But provided you've done the research that the Vaquero is well made, and you've shot .357 revolvers and like them. Then this seems like a done deal. Revolvers are cool, .357/.38 are common, I bet you'll have fun.

As far as self defense goes, a home defense gun without a light really is dangerous. You need to see your target clearly, if there's any chance it's getting used for self defense make sure a flashlight is ALWAYS with it. It's hard to overstate how much better just about any other choice is for self defense. That said it sounds like you basically just want to have fun at the range, so for that, the Vaquero seems great.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

Thank you for your comment! The gun is totally not for self-defense it’s to pay homage to the firearms I grew up shooting in Ohio and to mark an achievement/milestone in my life:) AND TO SHOOT at the range!

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co1945611@reddit

That's fair! If that's the case, don't let someone on the internet tell you what to do. If you're buying something just because it's cool, go for whatever your heart desires! That said... this is objectively a terrible choice for home defense. Unfortunately for you, semi automatics are king for a reason. Capacity, ease of use, modularity, and ability to reload under pressure make them objectively better choices. I would suggest a glock 19 or 17, walther pdp or S&W M&P series for that application.

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Future-Beach-5594@reddit

Yea single action is for funzies only in my opinion. I mean last resort self defense sure but not a daily carry. Never shot the vaquero but i have a ruger wrangler 22 and that little thing has seen more rounds than i think anything else over the years just because it simple and accurate for what it is. But i always condone a random gun purchase just for shits and giggles. I do it every month

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silverbumble@reddit

Throw some Ivory grips on that bad boy and you got a kind of a Patton gun! (his was .45LC but he also had a S&W model 27 357 too I think)

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arc_oobleck@reddit

I would get a 22 single action first. You can get them cheap, shoot them cheap, and then decide if you want the big boy or to diversify.

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card_shart@reddit

Do this. Get a Ruger Wrangler and play around with that. Like I mentioned in my other comment, I have a Cimmaron .357 SAA clone but since I never actually ended up doing CAS, I just got a Wrangler and a Henry .22 for getting the cowboy out of my system. Much cheaper to obtain and shoot.

I save the 20¢pr ammo firearms for more serious endeavors.

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constantwa-onder@reddit

Ruger Super Wrangler would be better for a new shooter.

The sight post and groove on the Wrangler would just be frustrating.

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RedleyLamar@reddit

I love my 45 long colt vaquero, prettiest gun in the arsenal.

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ChickenFeats@reddit

Its a good gun. It's a bad choice for defense being single action. See if you like a ruger redhawk. Its double action at least.

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sssstr@reddit

Excellent taste considering the competition.

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GotMySillySocksOn@reddit

I don’t have an opinion on the gun but look into cowboy action shooting! It might be a fun activity for you and your already one of the guns it requires if you do get a vaquero. Good luck

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TheRattlingBoxFan@reddit

My first pistol/revolver purchase was a ruger GP100. Great gun, love 357 mag. For the price of the vaquero, I'd look on the used market. Gun broker is always my best friend haha

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TheRattlingBoxFan@reddit

I'd also like to add that I have a ruger wrangler and that is my absolute most used gun. (I live on some land and have used to to dispatch small critters and such. I, too love revolvers and single action "cowboy" guns.

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GreyBeardsStan@reddit

Amazing gun, not adequate for a novice for self-defense.

Recoil, loading, and shooting form are all reasons to steer away from a single action for someone like yourself.

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stjhnstv@reddit

If it’s strictly a range toy and safe queen, I’d say you can’t do wrong with either the Vaquero or the GP100. They’re both reliable as hell, built like tanks and with reasonable care will outlive you and your children’s children. However since you mentioned self defense as being at least a peripheral concern, the GP100 is by far the better of these two options.

Honestly though, I’d steer you in a different direction. For self defense, I would personally want the best tool available and to me, and these two guns just aren’t it. I myself would look into something more practical first and something more novelty oriented later.

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Paladin_3@reddit

I'm a big fan of cowboy revolvers and own a Single Action Army and several cap and ball revolvers. But the first thing I did when I got to a state where I could legally carry was to buy a 9mm 12+1 capacity semi-auto.

I've always lived in fairly safe neighborhoods, so the chance I'd have to defend my home with a firearm was always relatively low. When I got to a state where I could carry, I knew A Single Action Army wouldn't be a suitable choice.

That said, if you like cowboy revolvers, go ahead and get that vaquero. It's not like you'd be unarmed if somebody came into the home. But if you're serious about having a self-defense handgun at some point, you might want to spring for a high-capacity semi-auto in at least 9mm.

Or get yourself a pump 12 gauge shotgun like I've always had for home defense. It doesn't have to be your favorite gun, but think of it as a relatively inexpensive, purpose driven tool for defending your home should you ever have to.

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Warhorse_99@reddit

If someone broke into my house, a single action revolver would be extremely low on the list of firearms I’d want in my hand.

If you just want a cool gun it’s a fine choice if you like it. If you want a cool gun to shoot & a gun you can use in case someone breaks in, get 2 guns.

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DaddyHawk45@reddit

Can a well placed .357 put a stop to whatever FAFO situation is going on in your house? Absolutely! The question is whether or not YOU can put that first shot where it needs to go with that particular firearm. That’s a question only you can answer. As others have said, there are more modern choices which MAY be better to solve idiot sized problems in your own home. You don’t need a full sized duty “get into trouble” gun. You need a quality “get out of trouble” gun. If that Vaquero works for you, awesome. If not, make that your barbecue/church gun and find something that fills the home defense role better. Personally, I’d rather reach for a long gun over a handgun to deter the local meth head from copper mining my AC unit.

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arnoldcooker@reddit (OP)

This is a good take! Thank you for your opinion!

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ShootingTargets7@reddit

Always been fond of a 12g pump shotgun ;) for home defense. You rack that, they stop or go on a rapid weight loss plan. :)

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Underwater_Karma@reddit

I have a pair of .45 LC/ACP Vaquero, and they're great guns. Big, heavy, guns

Get for shooting because the 6 rounds slow you down instead of just Mag dumping

That being said, a single action revolver is just about the last gun I would recommend for self defense. Low capacity, slow fire, manual cocking, etc. and you're never going to concealed carry it if you're getting a permit

There's a reason why a semiauto 9mm is the default self defense gun.

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Agreeable_Debate8567@reddit

Get a Glock 17 or 19. Upgrade to tridium and fiber optic combo night sights. Truglo pro or something comparable. And train at least once a month. Unless you live on a ranch or someplace you can open carry. (Open carry Which I don’t recommend for the reasons many people CCW). A wheel gun is just old tech brother. If you want me for your backup I get it but first gun should be something you can train on. I have been in classes with guys with wheel guns and against a semi automatic you loose every time.

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Agreeable_Debate8567@reddit

*one

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Queefer_the_Griefer@reddit

I adore revolvers. I have three single actions and a double action. But I will tell you this: do yourself a favor and get a modern semiautomatic for home defense. You don’t have to get one instead of the revolver, or even before the revolver. But this gun really is just for fun at the range. You’d be severely handicapping yourself to keep it as your sole defense firearm.

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Bigdaddyjlove1@reddit

I love a Ruger single action. I have a .41mag Blackhawk in 4 5/8 that I treasure. I have no concerns using it for SD, but its not my first choice.

If you want it, get it. Shoot it. Be ready to talk to people, because they are going to want to talk to you when you bust that thing out at the range. Hunt with it. Get some boots. Don't get a horse.

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Schorsi@reddit

I have a stainless steel vaquero in .357 with a 5.5 barrel and it’s my favorite gun. I shoot it more than anything else, I compete with it (poorly), and it is just downright fun. I love the finickyness of operating single action revolvers, the ergonomics just feel so much more natural to shoot. It’s my most used gun.

My actual carry gun is a Smith and Wesson CSX (a semi auto handgun). I could probably be just fine for most defensive encounters, but if my husband’s life is on the line I’d rather have the extra 7 rounds plus and optic to ensure things end right.

If you look at defensive encounter stats reloading doesn’t happen, so those 6 rounds are all you got. If it’s just against one person that may be fine, but for 3 or more I wouldn’t want to bet on it.

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engled@reddit

I am probably the only person on reddit that daily carry's a SAA and even I'm going to suggest against it for a defensive gun. It is a fine firearm and super fun to shoot but get the GP100.

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I80roadman@reddit

Badass first firearm choice. I have a Blackhawk, wrangler, and single six. Nothing like a single action trigger pull or pumping casings out manually. It's not optimal for self defense but guns like it have yee hawed the fuck out of people. Keep it loaded and anyone that says your under armed is a fool.

Once you catch the gun bug your going to buy more. Id recommend another vaquero blued with a birds head and a quality leather rig to carry them.

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InterviewKey3451@reddit

Do it. Don't listen to the negative comments buy the gun then a cowboy hat

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surelynotjimcarey@reddit

For your first gun, get a 9mm for a defensive gun or a .22 for a target gun. The stats I can find say every pistol round .380 and up is equally effective in a self defense shooting, so get a 9mm if it’s for self defense.

Nightstand gun? Glock 17. Hybrid carry/nightstand? Glock 19. Micro carry? Glock 43X. Target shooting and just learning? Taurus TX22, Ruger MK IV, or Glock 44. Or a heritage rough rider, it’s a $100 .22LR SA revolver. Might scratch your Vaqeuro itch

Revisit the cowboy guns later. I have a revolver, but it was a goofy, “for fun” purchase and it barely sees the light of day. I’d never carry 6 shots with no mags over my Glock 43X or 45, and the ammo is so much more expensive I don’t take it to the range much.

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wildjabali@reddit

Get the Blackhawk.

Having real sights is so important. Plus availability of holsters and parts will be much, much better. The Blackhawk is a gun you can have forever and never regret. The Vaquero is a novelty.

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Forsaken-Date-8016@reddit

Just get a CZ P-10

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Strongmanjumps@reddit

If you want a ruger the gp100 is a great DA revolver. If you like the cowboy aesthetic then go for it its your gun not mine.

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anothercarguy@reddit

+1 on not for self defense

For safety it has a hammer bar safety which drops when you press the hammer so it won't go off when dropped. This changes the feel of the trigger from the original.

For most original colt SAA feel: look at the Pietta and Uberti. Pietta (God damn fuck you Google autocorrect) has better internals that the Uberti but doesn't look as nice

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ManOf1000Usernames@reddit

Get a Ruger Wrangler in 22lr (or a heritage rough rider) first before to see if you are ok with single action only. And then keep it, as practicing with it will be 10x cheaper than a bigger caliber.

Voting for a GP100 though as speedloaders make MUCH more viable for self defense than a single action only gun.

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McMacHack@reddit

A Single Action Revolver is not the most popular choice for self defense but it is certainly viable so long as you train with it often. In the hands of a well practiced user a Single Action Revolver is perfectly viable. Single Action, Double Action, Semi-Auto, Select Fire all of these options are only as good as the shooter.

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justrobdoinstuff@reddit

As a self defense firearm for an inexperienced shooter experiencing a home invasion, very poor choice of gun.

When those first six shots are over after you've mag dumped your gonna have a hard time trying to reload with all that adrenaline making you shake n the confusion of the mild concussion from experiencing small explosions in a confined space for the first time............. or you could be lucky n never have to use it.

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card_shart@reddit

My first handgun was a Cimmaron .357. I was planning on doing CAS.

I do not see any reason to spend the money on such a thing unless you're getting a set and doing CAS. You will be much better served with a less expensive, more useful, and easier to train with modern firearm. You are purchasing a tool to defend yourself, not a fashion accessory.

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Mountain_Man_88@reddit

The Vaquero is a great gun. It's not a great home defense gun, but it is still a gun and California likes to neuter you anyway so it's not as far behind the ideal CA legal self defense gun as it would be behind the ideal self defense gun in other states. The GP100 would be more ideal because of the quicker reloads, or two vaqueros so you effectively have 12 rounds loaded. I would hate to have to reload one in the middle of a gunfight, particularly an asymmetrical gunfight against a guy with a semi automatic, an AR pistol, or a Glock with a switch, which are seem to be preferred by criminals.

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RL_CaptainMorgan@reddit

I have one and it's a fun toy but not something that should be relied on for home defense. I would get a defensive firearm first like a Glock 19, the Honda Civic of the gun world. It's not flashy but it's cost effective and it works. Then I would look at getting this toy

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