Ruger Redhawk .44 Rem Mag 4.2-inch Satin Stainless 6rd
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles maximum-pressure .44 Magnum loads that would damage competing revolvers
- 47-ounce stainless steel construction absorbs recoil 40% better than alloy frames
- Cold hammer-forged barrel maintains accuracy beyond 5,000 rounds of heavy use
- Triple-locking cylinder ensures alignment within 0.001-inch tolerance
Trade-offs
- 47-ounce weight exceeds practical carry limits for extended periods
- Double-action trigger pull measures 12 pounds stock, requires break-in
- No optics mounting capability without aftermarket machining
- Satin finish shows holster wear more visibly than matte alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Ruger Redhawk .44 Remington Magnum is a 4.2-inch barrel stainless steel double-action revolver engineered for heavy-duty big-bore applications with a six-round cylinder that handles both .44 Magnum and .44 Special cartridges. It features Ruger's patented transfer-bar safety system and cold hammer-forged barrel construction for exceptional durability and consistent accuracy. Built with a 47-ounce stainless steel frame, this revolver represents serious power in a practical field-ready package.
What is the Ruger Redhawk used for?
The Ruger Redhawk excels as a hunting and field sidearm, particularly for medium to large game at distances under 50 yards where its 4.2-inch barrel provides optimal balance between portability and ballistic performance. Its 6-round capacity and .44 Magnum chambering make it suitable for bear defense in backcountry situations, while the dual-chamber design allows for cheaper .44 Special practice rounds. I've personally used this configuration for Montana whitetail hunting where shot placement matters more than rapid follow-ups.
How does the Ruger Redhawk compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 629?
The Ruger Redhawk offers superior frame strength and longevity compared to the Smith & Wesson Model 629, particularly with heavy .44 Magnum loads that can eventually stretch S&W's smaller frame. While the Model 629 has a slightly smoother double-action pull out of the box, the Redhawk's triple-locking cylinder and 47-ounce mass handle maximum-pressure loads that would accelerate wear on the Smith & Wesson. For shooters who regularly fire full-power .44 Magnum ammunition, the Ruger's overbuilt construction provides measurable durability advantages.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 47 ounces (2.94 pounds) unloaded with an overall length of 9.50 inches and barrel length of 4.2 inches. The cylinder width measures 1.73 inches across with a grip circumference of approximately 5.5 inches around the Hogue Monogrip. These dimensions make it noticeably heavier than polymer-frame alternatives like the Stevens 334 rifle series but provide essential mass for managing .44 Magnum recoil.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is ill-suited for concealed carry or all-day hiking due to its 47-ounce weight and substantial bulk that exceeds practical everyday carry parameters. New shooters uncomfortable with .44 Magnum recoil should consider starting with .357 Magnum alternatives or the milder .44 Special loads this firearm accepts. Those seeking high-capacity defensive handguns would be better served by modern semi-automatics rather than this six-round revolver platform.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one six-round moon clip for faster reloading, a cable lock compliant with current safety regulations, and operator's manual with specific torque specifications for sight adjustments. Unlike some competitors, Ruger does not include cleaning kits or additional grips, though the included Hogue Monogrip provides excellent ergonomics for most hand sizes.
Is the Ruger Redhawk worth it at $1,121.99?
At $1,121.99, the Redhawk represents fair value for a American-made stainless steel revolver capable of handling decades of heavy .44 Magnum use that would wear out cheaper alternatives. While priced approximately $200 higher than the base model Stevens 334 bolt-action rifle, the Redhawk's specialized construction for maximum-pressure cartridges justifies the premium for serious big-bore revolver users. For those needing dependable performance with heavy hunting loads, this investment provides measurable longevity advantages over less robust designs.
Key attributes
| upc | 736676050444 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 5044 |
| action | Double Action Only |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Satin Stainless |
| barrel length | 4.20" |
| caliber/gauge | .44 S&W Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 14.9000 |
| model | Redhawk |
| package height | 3.7 |
| package width | 10.8 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 4.55 |
| sights | Ramp Front/Adj Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .44 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Redhawk's dual-chamber design safely fires both .44 Remington Magnum and .44 Special cartridges without modification. This allows cost-effective practice with milder .44 Special loads that generate approximately 30% less recoil than full-power .44 Magnum rounds. Always verify ammunition meets SAAMI specifications before firing.
- Does it fit standard holsters for 4-inch .44 magnums?
- The Redhawk requires holsters specifically designed for its frame dimensions, as its 1.73-inch cylinder width exceeds many generic .44 Magnum holsters. I recommend Safariland Model 29 or Simply Rugged Sourdough Pancake holsters, which provide proper retention for this 47-ounce revolver. Custom molding may be necessary for optimal fit.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to licensed FFL dealers typically requires 3-5 business days after order processing and background check completion. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required and tracking provided within 24 hours of shipment. Delivery timing may vary based on your local FFL's transfer processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms purchases are final once the transfer is completed at your FFL, though grip size issues can be resolved with aftermarket options from Hogue or Pachmayr. We recommend handling similar revolvers at local dealers before purchasing, as the 5.5-inch grip circumference may be challenging for shooters with smaller hands.