Ruger Redhawk

The Ruger Redhawk is the full-size double-action revolver that established Ruger’s reputation for building revolvers that could handle full-power .44 Magnum loads with long-term durability. Available in .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, and .45 Colt, the Redhawk uses a triple-locking cylinder, a patented internal lockwork that separates the hammer and trigger return springs, and all-stainless construction throughout. For hunters, target shooters, and backcountry users who want a full-size double-action revolver built for hard use, the Redhawk is the working-gun standard at its price point.

Read our full Ruger Redhawk Buying Guide ↓

Redhawk vs. Super Redhawk: Choosing the Right Frame

The Redhawk and Super Redhawk are related but distinct platforms. The Redhawk is the standard frame—built for .44 Magnum and equivalent pressure levels, with a 4.2” or 7.5” barrel and a traditional revolver profile. The Super Redhawk uses a larger, heavier frame designed specifically for .454 Casull and .480 Ruger, with an extended top strap and integral scope mounting system. For .44 Magnum and .357 Magnum use, the Redhawk is the correct choice—lighter, more balanced, and purpose-built for those calibers. For .454 Casull or extended scope use, the Super Redhawk is appropriate.

Triple-Locking Cylinder

The Redhawk’s cylinder locks at three points—front, rear, and the traditional crane lockup—rather than the two-point lockup standard on most revolvers. This provides tighter cylinder-to-barrel gap alignment, which contributes to the Redhawk’s accuracy reputation and reduces gas cutting at the cylinder gap under sustained high-power use. For a hunting revolver that will fire thousands of full-power .44 Magnum loads over its life, the triple-locking system provides durability advantages that matter in the long term.

Caliber Options: .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, and .45 Colt

The .44 Magnum Redhawk is the most popular configuration for hunting—adequate for any North American game and widely available in hunting-specific ammunition. The .357 Magnum Redhawk provides a more shootable hunting and target revolver that also fires .38 Special for practice, useful for shooters who want the Redhawk platform at a lower recoil level. The .45 Colt Redhawk handles standard and +P .45 Colt loads and is particularly interesting for hunters who appreciate the .45 Colt’s large-diameter bullet for deep penetration on deer-sized game.

Hunting and Field Applications

The Redhawk with a 7.5” barrel and a handgun scope is a practical hunting revolver accurate to 75–100 yards with appropriate ammunition. The 4.2” barrel configuration is more suited to holster carry and backcountry defense where a shorter package handles better. Both barrel lengths are available in stainless—the standard finish for a hunting revolver that will see rain, blood, and hard use. The Redhawk’s adjustable rear sight allows precise zero adjustment for different load weights and distances.

See the larger-frame variant on the Ruger Super Redhawk page, see the compact carry option on the Ruger Alaskan page, or browse all revolvers.