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The Ruger Redhawk is a heavy-duty double-action revolver you’ll find chambered in .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, or .45 Colt. Its triple-locking cylinder and unique single-spring mechanism ensure precise lockup and smooth trigger operation. You’re getting a stainless steel construction with barrel options from 4.2″ to 7.5″, weighing 46-54 oz. While the MSRP starts at $1,399, the robust design and transfer bar safety system make it worth exploring further technical specifications.
Key Takeaways
- The Ruger Redhawk is a heavy-duty double-action revolver introduced in 1978, available in .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, and .45 Colt calibers.
- Built from stainless steel, the revolver features a unique triple-locking cylinder system for enhanced durability and precise alignment.
- Available barrel lengths range from 4.2″ to 7.5″, with modern models typically priced around $1,399 to $1,499.
- The revolver employs a single-spring mechanism that delivers smooth trigger operation in both double-action and single-action modes.
- Cylinder capacity varies from 6 to 8 rounds depending on caliber, with adjustable sights standard across all models.
Description
The Ruger Redhawk stands as a robust double-action revolver that debuted in 1978, marking Ruger’s initial entry into large-bore double-action wheelguns.
You’ll find this stainless steel revolver equipped with a unique single-spring mechanism delivering smooth trigger operation. The triple-locking cylinder ensures precise alignment, while multiple caliber options (.44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, .45 Colt) and barrel lengths (4.2″ to 7.5″) suit various applications.
Price Range
Modern Ruger Redhawk models command a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $1,399.00, positioning this robust revolver in the premium double-action segment.
| Configuration | Caliber | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 4.20″ Barrel | .44 Magnum | $1,399 |
| 5.50″ Barrel | .357 Magnum | $1,399 |
| 7.50″ Barrel | .45 Auto | $1,499 |
You’ll find consistent pricing across barrel lengths, with the trigger and rear sight configuration remaining identical. The revolver’s ability to handle powerful magnum loads makes it a value proposition, considering its dual-caliber compatibility.
Specifications
The Ruger Redhawk’s stainless steel construction delivers exceptional durability while maintaining a balanced weight distribution for optimal control. You’ll find this double-action revolver’s barrel lengths range from 4.2 to 7.5 inches, accommodating various shooting applications from concealed carry to hunting. The cylinder capacity varies based on your chosen caliber, with options including .44 Magnum, .45 Auto, and .357 Magnum configurations.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Length | 4.2″ – 7.5″ |
| Weight | 46-54 oz (varies by model) |
| Caliber Options | .44 Mag/.45 Auto/.357 Mag |
| Cylinder Capacity | 6-8 rounds (caliber dependent) |
Weight
Built from robust stainless steel, Ruger’s Redhawk revolver exhibits substantial mass that varies according to barrel configuration. The stainless steel construction delivers significant weight, particularly in Magnum models with 7.5-inch barrels.
You’ll find the mechanism’s heft most pronounced in longer barrel lengths, while 5.5-inch and 4.2-inch variants maintain a lighter profile while retaining the platform’s characteristic durability.
Barrel Length
Available in three distinct configurations, Ruger’s Redhawk offers barrel lengths of 4.2, 5.5, and 7.5 inches to accommodate various shooting applications.
The 4.2-inch variant provides a compact 10.6 cm profile with a shorter sight radius, while the 5.5-inch (13.9 cm) strikes a balance for Magnum performance.
You’ll find the 7.5-inch model delivers optimal front sight radius, making it a dependable choice for precision shooting through the years.
Material Made Out Of
Engineered with rugged stainless steel construction, Ruger’s Redhawk delivers exceptional durability for handling high-pressure magnum loads.
The hammer-forged sleeve and shroud barrel integrate seamlessly with the stainless steel frame, while the triple-locking cylinder ensures precise alignment. You’ll find the transfer bar mechanism built into the robust frame, providing an additional safety layer without compromising the revolver’s structural integrity.
Chambered In
The Ruger Redhawk’s stainless steel frame houses a versatile array of chambering options. You’ll find it chambered in .44 Magnum (also accepting .44 Special loads), .357 Magnum (compatible with .38 Special), and a dual caliber configuration in .45 ACP/.45 Colt.
The dependable operation allows for a 6-round capacity in most models, while the .45 variant offers an adjustable capacity of 6 or 8 rounds.
Capacity
Depending on your chosen caliber, Ruger’s Redhawk offers either a 6-round or 8-round cylinder capacity.
When you select the .44 Magnum or .45 Colt/ACP variants, you’ll get a robust 6-round cylinder designed for magnum-level pressures. The .357 Magnum version features an 8-round cylinder in its medium frame.
All models maintain precise cartridge alignment through Ruger’s triple-locking cylinder mechanism.
Trigger Pull
Beyond its cylinder capacity, Ruger’s Redhawk showcases distinct trigger characteristics in both single-action and double-action modes. While you’ll find the factory double-action pull light and smooth with early cylinder lockup, the single-action trigger exhibits noticeable over-travel.
You can enhance the single-action performance through gunsmithing, but don’t modify the mainspring—it’s crucial for dependable operation and reliable primer strikes with all loads.
Safety?
Safeguarding shooters with robust engineering, Ruger’s patented transfer bar mechanism stands at the forefront of the Redhawk’s safety features. The cylinder is locked at three distinct points, ensuring positive alignment and dependable operation.
This triple-locking system, combined with the transfer bar mechanism, provides an unparalleled measure of security against accidental discharge during both carry and field operations.
Action
A powerhouse of mechanical precision, the Ruger Redhawk’s double-action mechanism operates on an innovative single-spring design that delivers both smooth cycling and consistent trigger pull weights.
The revolver’s triple-locking cylinder mechanism provides reliable alignment for each shot. You’ll find its mechanical action integrates a transfer bar for protection against unintentional discharge while maintaining a light, crisp trigger pull under demanding conditions.
Optic Ready?
Modern Redhawk models complement their robust action with mounting options for optical sights. You’ll find a replaceable colored front blade that offers enhanced target acquisition in varying light conditions.
The adjustable rear sight with a white outline pairs seamlessly with the front sight insert, allowing for precise sighting. If you prefer customization, you can readily swap the colored front blade sight to match your preferences.
Review
You’ll find the Ruger Redhawk excels in durability with its robust stainless steel construction and triple-locking cylinder mechanism, enabling it to handle even high-pressure .44 Magnum loads that exceed S&W Model 29 specifications.
The revolver’s unique single-spring system delivers a notably smooth double-action trigger pull, though the single-action trigger may benefit from aftermarket tuning.
While post-1986 models might require firing pin protrusion adjustment, the Redhawk’s exceptional strength, load capacity, and reliability make it a standout choice for heavy-caliber applications.
Pros
When examining the Redhawk’s mechanism prowess, this double-action revolver showcases exceptional engineering through its triple-locking cylinder system and innovative single-spring mechanism. You’ll appreciate its bottom-up designed stainless steel construction and cold hammer-forged barrel, built specifically for magnum loads.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Triple-locking cylinder | Enhanced alignment |
| Transfer bar mechanism | Improved safety |
| Single-spring system | Smooth trigger pull |
| Stainless steel build | Superior durability |
| Adjustable sights | Precision accuracy |
Cons
Despite its robust construction, the Redhawk exhibits several notable drawbacks that warrant consideration. You’ll find significant trigger over-travel issues and potential firing pin protrusion problems in post-86 models. While recoiling forces are manageable with factory grips for lighter loads, you’ll need aftermarket options for full-power rounds.
| Limitation | Impact |
|---|---|
| Trigger Over-travel | Difficult modification |
| Firing Pin | Post-86 ignition concerns |
| Factory Grips | Limited for magnum loads |
| Sight Adjustment | Multiple weights need re-zero |
| Overall Mass | Heavy for practical carry |
Reliability
The Redhawk’s battle-tested reliability stems from its robust stainless steel construction and precision-engineered lockwork. You’ll find the rugged triple-locking cylinder provides secure, positive engagement, while the transfer bar mechanism ensures drop-safe operation.
The durable single-spring design delivers reliable, smooth trigger pulls, and the cold hammer-forged barrel enhances accuracy. This combination makes the Redhawk exceptionally dependable under heavy magnum loads.
Similar Models
Several double-action revolvers share similar characteristics with the Redhawk, including Ruger’s own Super Redhawk and the Smith & Wesson Model 29.
The Magnum Redhawk’s triple-locking cylinder mechanism provides an unparalleled level of reliability. Like its counterparts, it can handle powerful magnum loads, features an adjustable front blade sight insert, and offers similar cartridge interchangeability between .44 Magnum/.44 Special and .357 Magnum/.38 Special.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Major firearm manufacturers offer comparable double-action revolvers that compete directly with the Redhawk in the large-frame magnum market.
You’ll find the Smith & Wesson Model 29 and Taurus Raging Bull, both specifically designed to handle powerful magnum loads through extra reinforcement.
The Colt Anaconda features a hammer-forged sleeve and shroud barrel, while Dan Wesson’s 715 strengthens its frame at the front.
Maintenance
Maintaining your Ruger Redhawk demands meticulous attention to its internal components and operating surfaces. As one of America’s most reliable firearms, you’ll need to clean it thoroughly after each use, focusing on carbon removal and internal fouling.
Apply high-quality lubricants to the cylinder, trigger, and hammer pivot points. Store your Redhawk in a controlled environment, and schedule regular inspections with a qualified gunsmith to deliver optimal performance.
History
The Ruger Redhawk’s robust design emerged in 1978 as the company’s first venture into large-bore magnum revolvers. Designed by Roy Melcher and Harry Sefried, the rugged stainless steel revolver initially chambered only .44 Magnum rounds.
When barrel failures surfaced in the mid-1980s, Ruger enhanced the receiver with an extended frame. The Redhawk’s triple-locking cylinder and transfer bar mechanism enabled reliable handling of potent magnum loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do They Still Make the Ruger Redhawk?
Yes, you can still buy the Ruger Redhawk today. You’ll find its double action capability and smooth trigger pull performance remain hallmarks of this robust revolver.
The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while its ergonomic design features provide excellent handling. You’ve got multiple sight alignment options available, and it’s offered in various calibers including .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, and the dual-caliber .45 ACP/.45 Colt configuration.
What Is the Difference Between the Ruger Redhawk and the Super Redhawk?
You’ll notice key differences between these revolvers in frame size variations, with the Super Redhawk sporting a larger, beefier frame for enhanced recoil management features.
The Super Redhawk’s trigger mechanism design uses a more robust lockwork compared to the Redhawk’s single-spring system, though both maintain single action capability.
You’ll find longer barrel length options on the Super Redhawk (up to 10.5″), while the Redhawk maxes at 7.5″.
What Calibers Does Ruger Redhawk Come In?
Like a Swiss Army knife of revolvers, you’ll find the Redhawk packs quite a punch with its diverse caliber lineup. You can get it chambered in .44 Remington Magnum (which also accepts .44 Special), .357 Magnum (compatible with .38 Special), and the dual-purpose .45 ACP/.45 Colt configuration.
While Ruger previously offered .41 Magnum and standalone .45 Colt versions, they’ve since discontinued these options. Each caliber delivers impressive ballistic performance and reliability.
Does Ruger Make a 45 ACP Revolver?
Yes, Ruger produces a 45 ACP revolver in their Redhawk line. You’ll find the dual-cylinder capability allows you to fire both .45 ACP and .45 Colt cartridges, enhancing the revolver’s versatility.
The redesigned round-butt grip frame improves ergonomics and comfort during extended shooting sessions. Using moon clips for .45 ACP rounds, you’ll experience reliable feeding and extraction. This configuration makes the Redhawk suitable for both hunting and self-defense applications.
Conclusion
Properly preserving your powerful Redhawk pistol promotes peak performance. You’ll find this double-action revolver delivers decisive dependability when you maintain its mechanical magnificence. From the cylinder’s timing to the trigger’s travel, your regular maintenance routine ensures reliable function. Whether you’re selecting supersonic or subsonic loads, this robust revolver remains ready for range time or defensive deployment.
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