Advice requested, custom build contemplated

[Poindexter]

I have an idea in my mind for a revolver that I can't buy.

What I want is a Ruger Montado (3.75" bbl, plough handle grip, .45 Colt), but I don't want the polished stainless finish.

So would it be better/faster/ cheaper/ smarter to buy a new vaquero in the satin stainless finish I do like and have the barrel cut down and ejector housing modified, or would it make more sense to buy a Montado and have it refinished?

Either way, I am going to have to have the hammer modified. I really really like the hammer on my 3.75" birds head vaquero. Mine is in blue and I am keeping it. The Montado hammer is closer to what I want on the finished gun, but not it exactly. Another reason to think about refinishing a Montado is the base pin. Whasshisname on the mountain doesn't make base pins for 3.75" bbl Rugers.

I did buy a piece of fiddle back looking walnut yesterday for future grips. I will be going with a wider front sight blade and having the rear sight trough wallowed out a bit.

FWIW I am planning to open carry this gun once its finished anytime I open carry. Also, I am hoping with the standard grip on it it will be easier to practice with. I am loading 8.8 to 9.0 grains of Unique under 250-255 gr cast bullets, extended practice with the birdshead is no fun.

 

[KyJim]

I would think buying the Montado and having it bead blasted would be cheaper. A quick search shows a cost of $125 to bead blast either a matte or satin finish at http://www.gunsmokeguns.com/gunsmithing-finishes.html. I know nothing about that particular company, just using it as an example.

 

[Poindexter]

Yup, it's looking like it depends on the smith. I found one or two who could do the re-finishing.

I haven't found one that wants to cut down a longer barrel and modify the ejector, but I am confident I -could- find one.

A third option for me would be to start with a Lipsey's Sheriff and have it drilled up and re-rifled from 44 Spec to 45 Colt. Haven't found a smith that wants to take that on just yet either. Sounds like the most expensive option, but probably would give the tightest tolerances on the finished gun.

 

[jackmoser65]

All stainless Vaqueros and New Vaqueros have the bright polish. By far, you are better off buying the configuration you want and having it refinished.