I am looking for something more authentic than a old three screw Blackhawk
The New Vaquero is the same size and look as the Colt, and the clones. If authentic is important, then open your wallet and buy a Colt, nothing else is authentic!
Because, no matter who else makes it, if its not a real Colt, then its just a copy. It may be a faithful copy, it may be very well made, but its still a copy.
If you just want authentic looking, Ruger has a model for that, and to my eye, looks as good as the clones, or the original Colt. But, I'm not a purist in that regard.
You just can't make a Ruger handle or shoot as well as a SAA clone.
That's your opinion, and you're welcome to it, but I disagree. Handling is a very subjective opinion, and maybe
you can't make a Ruger handle to your satisfaction, but others can, and do.
Shoot as well? that's a combination of the gun & ammo's capabilities, AND the shooter's physical ability. Its entirely true that some individual guns aren't as accurate as others, but there is no way you will convince me that an SAA clone is more accurate than a Ruger, because its an SAA clone.
I'm kind of the "anti-traditionalist" when it comes to single actions. I love my Rugers and have been shooting them since 83. Most of my Blackhawks wear Pachmayr rubber grips. (
oh, the horror!! )
If you're set on Colt SAA size, and looks, that's fine. Check out the Ruger
New Vaquero. You get Colt size and looks, what you don't get is the Colt style action, or sound. And, you get to carry 6, safely, instead of 5.
Its just my opinion, and worth what you pay for it, but I don't think Rugers are "as good" as SAA clones, I think Rugers are BETTER!!!