First Look: Ruger's Compact Redhawk .44 Mag.

by
posted on March 27, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ruger_super_compact_redhawk_f.jpg

Not all handgun hunts end with that first, carefully placed shot taken at the end of a silent stalk. Many times the animal is only wounded and heads for dense cover. Sometimes the animal is initially spotted entering dense cover and the entire stalk takes place in very thick brush where visibility is no more than a few yards or even feet. In these scenarios a long-barreled revolver with scope is not the best equipment to have on hand. Here one wants a fast handling, downsized revolver with iron sights and the power to stop a potential frontal attack instantly. This is when you wish you had the new stainless Ruger Redhawk 44 Mag. with a 2.75" barrel carried in an easily accessed belt holster. This is the kind of moment for which the Ruger was designed and destined. Here are five things you need to know.

1. It packs plenty of firepower.
The fast-handling, compact revolver carries six rounds of fight-stopping 44 Magnum all of which can be dispensed very rapidly firing double action with the Redhawk's extremely smooth trigger system. And keep in mind, any animal can be dangerous when wounded and cornered.

2. It's easy to draw.
If for any reason you need both hands free for a moment and have to holster the gun, a good belt holster makes it available as quickly as you learned to draw in your defensive pistol training class.

3. It's rugged and dependable.
Features include corrosion resistant stainless steel construction, a small grip easily grasped and manipulated by different sized hands, and highly visible, quickly acquired sights that can be adjusted for whatever load you choose for your hunt. The rugged Redhawk will outlive you and be passed on to your descendants for continued reliable service.

4. It's versatile.
Between 44 Special and 44 Magnum ammunition there is a load available that's suitable for just about any animal you'd care to hunt. Find a power level you can handle and that's appropriate for your chosen game.

5. It can be precise.
The single action capability allows the placement of a single, precise shot should you get such an opportunity at ranges beyond powder burn distances.

Most handgun hunters choose their sport because they prefer the challenge of the "short gun." Imagine the enhanced satisfaction of taking game with a "snub nose" viewed by others as strictly a short range, defensive weapon. And if the final moments of the hunt turn into a true defensive engagement, your appreciation of the Redhawk and sense of satisfaction will soar to new heights!

Latest

LEDE Padadoxes And Rekkr
LEDE Padadoxes And Rekkr

Lyman Introduces Affordable Sonicore Suppressor Line

With the reduction of the suppressor tax-stamp to $0 on January 1, 2026, an opening appeared in the suppressor market for an affordable line of cans that could bring hearing protection to all price points. In no time flat, Lyman Products has filled that gap with Sonicore Suppressors.

Elk Hunting at 101

Dick Blossom took a cow elk last fall in his home state of Montana at the age of 101. Calvin Coolidge was in the White House when he was born, and the Great Depression and Dust Bowl were years in the future.

New for 2026: TriStar Upland Hunter Thumbhole

TriStar Arms has introduced the Upland Hunter Thumbhole Stock, a 20-gauge over/under shotgun built for the field.

Savage Releases the Next Generation of the Model 110

Savage Arms has announced a new era of its legacy Model 110. The new chapter of this platform features 16 purpose-built models and spans hundreds of new SKUs, including new cartridge offerings and left-hand models.

Duck Hunting with a Sub Gauge

Curious about dropping ducks with a sub gauge? Follow along as Scott Haugen details the pros and cons of running subs.

New for 2026: TAG Precision FiberLok SG Pro Shotgun Sight

Tag Precision announces the introduction of the FiberLok SG Pro Shotgun Sight, a new front sight designed to elevate the shotgun shooting experience through faster target acquisition.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.