If the republicans wanted a "pistol packing" "maverick" for VP, than why....?

Because he was attempting to attract the followers of Hillary Clinton who lost the Democratic nomination to Barak Obama. Obviously he bombed out on his choice because Sarah Palin has too much baggage to be a serious VP. Probably the only significant duty of a VP is that he/she will accede to the Presidency in case of the death of the President. Now I ask you, would you want Sarah Palin to be your President some day? Remember, McCain is in his 70's and his health is not all that good.