Blackhawk frame

[Duke0313]

Can a New Model Blackhawk (not SUPER) frame be replaced with an Old Model Vaquero frame? I LOVE my .41 Mag, I just wish it looked a little more "Cowboy."

[BlkHawk73]

  First, there are NO Old Model Vaqueros.   There are the Vaqueros which were built on the large size cylinder frame.  Then there's the New Vaqueros built on the medium sized cylinder frame.  ALL single action Rugers built since 1973 are New Models by design.

 By frame, I'm guessing you're referring to the grip frame and not the cylinder frame.  If so, the answer is yes.  The BH and SBH use the same cylinder frames anyways and the Vaquero cylinder frame only differs in the topstrap.   Changing grip frames, hammers, triggers...it's an easy DIY swap.  Not a 100% gaurantee the fit will be perfect but it'll swap over easy enough.   
  Not sure how the "look" will change though in doing this.  The Vaquero and BH's all used the same grip frame dimensionally - the XR3-RED.

   

[Flash]

Yes, the only difference between the New Model Blackhawk and the large framed Vaquero grip frame was the Vaquero is made of steel or stainless steel, depending on the gun finish, and the Blackhawk is aluminum. I actually prefer the Vaquero frame in some cases since it gives a better balance.

[44 Man]

The grip frames on the Blackhawk and Vaquaro are the same, so I'm sure he's not refering to that.  As for the frame itself, yes they could be swapped, but you might better trade guns.  You would want the barrel also so the front sight would match.  Then the innards, while Ruger does a good job on making most things fit, would still likely have to be 'timed' and that could be a major hassel.  As I said, better to trade guns...   44 Man

[DennisB]

I love my 41s too, but now that you mention in, I don't think Ruger made a Vaquero in 41??  Have you considered a Bisley--not currently made in 41, but they're out there... Or, you could put a Bisley grip frame on what you have now.  I believe Brownells and maybe Midway have the parts.

[Lloyd Smale]

you will have to change barrels too as the sights on a blackhawk barrel and a vaquero barrel are differnt and the blackhawk barrel sights will be way to high for your vaquero frame.

[6Shooter]

I have several old model Vaquero's and have switched them around. I have a Blackhawk that I put an old model vaquero bisley handle on and I liked it better than the xred-alum. grip. Gave it more weight and balance with the 7.5'' barrel.