[Cowboy66]

Can this be done and is it worth while? Is a barrel swap all that is required or is some internal work needed. I want a companion for my vaquero in 4440 and may be able to get this rifle cheap.

 

[44-40 Willy]

I'd imagine that at the least, the bolt face would have to be modified to accept the larger rim on the 44-40. COL is the same at 1.59 for both cartridges so that won't be an issue. If your B92 is like my Navy Arms 1892, a 44-40 round won't fit in the smaller 357 magazine tube even if you could get it through the loading gate which appears to be a very tight fit at best. I'm not sure, but wouldn't be surprised if the carriers are different between the 357 and 44-40.

Not saying it can't be done, but I'd think you'd be better off trying to convert a 44 Mag or 45 Colt or just buying a 44-40 to begin with.

Regardless, I'd still get the B92 as a 357 lever gun is one of the handiest rifles to have around.

BTW, how is the Vaquero 44-40? I've got a 7 1/2" one and I'm not very enthused with it.

 

[Cowboy66]

Thanks Willie, I figured even if it could be done it would be more trouble than it'd be worth, just a thought. As far as the vaquero goes I've never really shot it to see how accurate it it is but I've read it has some accuracy issues. I've thought about trading it on a 45 lc and 45 rifles are easier to come by. What are your issues with your vaquero?

 

[44-40 Willy]

Accuracy. Ruger used a 44 Mag barrel on the 44-40s and ammo that is sized to fit my Marlin is a loose fit in the Vaquero. And if I size to fit the Vaquero barrel, it won't chamber in my Marlin. I had access to a Rossi 92 in 44-40 several years ago that had the same problem. I'm thinking that ammo between the Ruger and the Rossi should be interchangable but as I don't have access to the Rossi anymore, I can't confirm it.

The Vaquero is now doing home defense duty with cast bullet black powder level loads. It's capable of minute of bad guy across the room. But I have thought about trying to trade it for some kind of a 357 revolver.

 

[Cowboy66]

Yeah Willie , that's what I read about the 44mag. barrels. Mine rides in a lawman holster these days as back up for my guide gun, with a 4 5/8" barrel I never thought much about accuracy. Anyway this is getting off subject so I'll close with saying maybe I can find a 45 to trade for.

 

[Klondike Mike]

You might want to check the value of that B92 357 before you modify it. Around here the 357 brings a premium. Just sayin; Mike

 

[Cowboy66]

It was just a thought, don't think I'll be modifing it, if I buy it.