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I don't recommend shooting maximum pressure reloads in the Vaquero. Maximum factory .357 loads shouldn't hurt the revolver as it was designed to handle them along with .38Special "+or ++" loads.
The .357 Vaquero has massively thick cylinder walls and I'd feel comfortable using full power factory loads.
The "Ruger only" loads were intendedfor use in the massive Bkackhawk and Super Blackhawk frames. New Vaquero frames are smaller to emulate the old Colt Peacemaker and isn't as strong as the old Blackhawk.
A company called HSM sells a 180gr .357 Mag "Bear Load" and I'd avoid it with my New Vaquero just for safety reasons. I doubt they produce it with over pressure levels but why chance harming such a fine revolver? If I were in Bear Country I'd carry full power,.357 Magnum 158gr solids in the NM Vaquero to ensure penetration andgood shock levels.
For general purpose shooting and CAS, Factory Winchester .38 Special158gr, RNFP 250fp loads are more than adequate.
ZVP
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