How to Maintain a Finish on a Vaquero Stainless

The Vaquero stainless is a single-action revolver manufactured by Ruger. The stainless finish is easy to maintain through regular cleaning. The cleaning method and materials are unique to the stainless finish and do not work on blued guns. The finish on a blued pistol is more sensitive and will rub off with stainless cleaning materials. The stainless finish is ideal for durability and use in wet conditions. The finish always shines and looks clean after the cleaning process.

Things You'll Need

  • Cotton swab
  • Metal polish
  • Brass push rod
  • Lead removal wipes
  • Cloths
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Instructions

    • 1

      Flip the gate in an open position to expose the cylinder chambers. Turn the cylinder and remove all of the rounds from the gun. Double-check to ensure the pistol is not loaded.

    • 2

      Push the lock button in front of the cylinder and pull the rod to release the cylinder. Pull the cylinder off the pistol. Removing the cylinder is necessary because powder residue and lead stains gather and spread on the finish. Removal exposes the stains and makes the entire barrel and each chamber accessible.

    • 3

      Dip one end of a cotton swab in a generic liquid metal polish. Clean the inside of the chambers. Follow the polish with a brass wire gun rod. Follow the rod with a second round of polish to complete the chambers. Repeat the process inside the barrel and use the cotton swab and polish to access all of the difficult crevasses on the gun.

    • 4

      Purchase a lead removal wipe and polish the exterior finish with the wipe. Wrap the wipe around the push rod and use it inside the cylinder chambers and barrel.

    • 5

      Wipe the exterior finish with a dry cloth to remove slick spots and complete the cleaning. Dip a clean cloth in the metal polish and wipe down the exterior to create a shiny, clean finish.

    • 6

      Replace the cylinder and load the gun for shooting.