How do you adjust a Ruger Vaquero for Windage?

[Cheyenne Ranger]

:? One of my Vaqueros is off about 4-5 inches (to the left) at about 8 yards.  Is there a GOOD way to correct this?  I've seen people bend the front sight (and how do they do that, by the way?)  
Someone else suggested a barrel vice.  Any and all ideas appreciated.
Thanks
Walt

[Cheyenne Ranger]

thanks Dan,
I have two Vaqueros and the other is about an inch off (and yes, to the left.)  I think you have something with the trigger and grip.  Will have to try again but since one is "Just" a bit to the left and the other is a bunch more I have to feel that it is the gun.  
I'm considering having an action job done and will probably ask the gunsmith his thoughts.  Would rather not mess up a brand new gun.
Appreciate your input--every bit helps
Walt

[Mikey]

Walt:  There were a number of posts in the Single Action Forum a while back and a number of write-ups in the gun magazines about the same problem.  

For some guys the problem was with their grip in shooting a single action revolver, especially some of the 'bird's head' grips but in may other situations it was the gun itself.

Most of the write-ups I have read recommend that a competent gunsmith correct the problem by turning (screwing in or out) the barrel one way or the other until the sight comes into proper picture.  

For the life of me now I can't recall the names of the gunsmiths who were written up as providing this type of service but maybe some of the fellas over at the Single Action Revolver forum can help.  Mikey.

[southern utah]

dan, go to http://www.sassnet.com/   and ask the cowboy shooters. I'm sure they've been thru the same situation, there maybe some links to a gunsmith or two.  

[Graybeard]

A barrell vice and stick of wood thru opening in frame maybe the only way you'll ever fix it. That's the best way IF you have the equipment and some experience at it.

I had an EMF Dakota that I really liked awhile back doing the same thing. Most everyone tried to convince me it was just the way I was gripping it. But when it did it whether I gripped it with right hand, left hand or both hands I was pretty sure that advice was all wet. I didn't have the experience to do the barrel vice and wood stick rountine and really didn't feel I should have to on a new gun. I sent it back and EMF said they couldn't fix it but would gladly replace it but would make no promises the next would be any different. I took the new one and traded it back to dealer where I bought it NIB for a Ruger (yeah ain't that a hoot GB with a Ruger) Bisley with adjustable sights.

I'd pack it up and return it to Ruger with some targets from both it and the other and tell them to fix it.

GB

[Lloyd Smale]

Dont bend that sight I did once and the sight ended up falling off!

:? One of my Vaqueros is off about 4-5 inches (to the left) at about 8 yards.  Is there a GOOD way to correct this?  I've seen people bend the front sight (and how do they do that, by the way?)  
Someone else suggested a barrel vice.  Any and all ideas appreciated.
Thanks
Walt

[Loozinit]

This is a question that comes up alot when SA's are the subject.  I have three Vaqueros and they ALL shot slightly left.  I ran the gamut trying to figure out why until some ol' guy at the range told me that holding a 19th century design was like trying to hold a funnel upside down - just ain't natural.  We will never know how many original Colts and such were whittled down on the palm side.  The only ones we usually see are the museum grade collectors stuff.

Part of the problem may be that long hammer time.  They definitely aren't as fast as a S&W in single action mode.  You have to hold through a little longer.

Anyway, that's how I fixed my guns.  All three.  I know some guys think it's nuts but it worked for me.  My hands are thick through the heel - right where the "funnel" is fattest.  Other guys may have a different physical structure.  It didn't take much - I just smoothed out the sharp edge by maybe 1/8th" or so.  No need to take in the whole thickness.  I also put some after market springs in there which went a long way towards making the Rugers smooth and light.  There are better SA's out there but since these now shoot better than I can deliver, I figure I have found my guns.  A stainless .45 Colt Vaquero 4-5/8ths is what I always rely on in the woods.

The good part is that even if it doesn't solve your problem, you have not altered your gun and you have the opportunity to refinish the wood better than the cheesy Ruger finish.

That ol' fart was right.

[ButlerFord45]

With no intent to insult,  shoot the pistol from a benchrest BEFORE you file or bend anything.  If it is off on windage, send the pistol along with the targets back to Ruger, they will correct the windage for you.  SOME other manufacturers will do the same, if the maker of your pistol will not do it for you, any reputable 'smith can do it for you at a minimal cost.  If you are going to do it anyway, it's best to turn the barrel, It is my understanding that cast frames, ie Ruger, are best done with a tool made specfically for this puropse instead of a block through the frame. I heard this from a fairly well known gunsmith that worked for AWA for what ever you might value his advice.

Butler Ford

[Dutch Canyon Red]

Don't try to bend the front sight on a Vaquero. They are silver soldered to the barrel and break off before they bend. The proper way to adjust windage is the barrel turning method described in previous posts. Unless you are an accomplished gunsmith, this job should br taken to one. If you bend the frame, it will be a very expensive learning experience.   :grin: