Ruger Old Army, stainless or blued?

[bigbore442001]

I would like to ask the collective wisdom of this board concerning what would be a better gun, blued or stainless?

I'd like to get a Ruger Old Army primarily to shoot informally and maybe even as a woods gun. I would primarily shoot H777 in it as that is what I use for my other guns. I have heard some state that the blued models had a better fit and finish, shot more accurately. Any experience in this matter would be greatly appreciated.

 

[peashooterJoe]

My ROA is stainless and still looks good after 20+ years of service. I got it from a view point of stainless is more forgiving of the enviroments and conditions I was in. Don't take me wrong now, I take care of my firearms and don't abuse them. For reliability I have never had it to fail me. I have seen some blued ones that looked like it was a dug up relic. The key to keeping one serviceable is proper cleaning and then preserving before it is packed up for several months or years. You'll be happy no matter which you pick.IMO

 

[John Taylor]

I have had both and didn't notice any differance in the way they shoot. The stainless is a little heavier. I have a used stainless for sale that has stag grips, like new condition with out the box.

 

[OldMaineWoodsman]

I have had a stainless model for about 20 years.

I used to carry it almost daily when I lived in Maine, and chose the stainless because I also thought it would be less forgiving and easier to maintain. Believe it or not, before I got married I used to wash it in the dishwasher.

I also like the fact that I can remove or touch up any blemishes with a little crocus cloth.

You will be happy with either. Have fun.

Kind regards,

 

[jdixon]

I have an old blued one (1981 vintage). My thinking at the time is that the blue steel would be less flashy when I took it along deer hunting. Other than that, I would have to say the looks and ease of cleaning of the stainless one - well I would get one of those now.