[Jeff Higgins]

Yes, the New Model Flat Top is equivalent to the New Model Vaquero, strength wise. The Flat Top is merely the adjustable sight version of the fixed sight Vaquero.

Mr. Pearce has, in fact, consulted with the engineers at Ruger prior to announcing to the world that the New Vaquero (and Flat Top) are rated for +P ammunition up to 23,000 psi. He would never make such a proclamation without having done so.

So, engineers work a bit differently than statisticians. When we are told an item must accept "X" load, we typically design it to accept at least 1.4X. In the case of firearms, the "maximum safe working pressure" is typically 60% or less of the pressure required to induce catastrophic failure. When operated within their safe working pressures, we expect firearms to never fail. We expect them to last several lifetimes, with neglect, corrosion, and other abuses leading to their demise, not excessive pressures.

Imagine if bridges were built with a 99.9999999% chance of "success". That would be unacceptable. We design and build in margins that ensure they will never fail. Same with firearms. You will never hear a ballitician saying "this should work"...