Which .44 magnum revolver

Mrgoosell · January 29, 2013, 02:44 AM

In the market for a 44 magnum revolver 4" or less for the barrel. What do you guys recommend??

BarryLee · January 29, 2013, 02:53 AM

I really like the S&W revolvers and feel you would not go wrong with a Model 629, but if it were me I would seriously consider the Ruger Redhawk.

http://www.ruger.com/products/redhawk/models.html

biohazurd · January 29, 2013, 02:54 AM

IMO the ruger redhawk is "THE best built .44 double action revolver around. I believe they have a 4" model now. Happy travels

Mrgoosell · January 29, 2013, 02:59 AM

Yeah i looked at the s&w 629. Im also intrigued by the ruger alaskan. Decisions decisions.....

Tennessee Jed · January 29, 2013, 09:17 AM

I love my 4" 629, but I think the decision needs to be based in part on what type of ammo you intend on shooting. If I was planning on shooting mostly full-power factory ammo, I'd probably go with the Redhawk. I think it has a better reputation for toughness.

kahrguy · January 29, 2013, 10:08 AM

Please don't buy a snubby 44mag revolver by going under 4". You loose to much velocity. I would buy the ruger red hawk OR if you find a old dan wesson 44 buy it regaurdless of barrel lenght as that can be swapped out in 2 minutes from one barrel to another. EWKarms is in the process of makeing 44 mag barrels and shrouds too.

codefour · January 29, 2013, 11:02 AM

If you want the John Deere of .44 Mag, get the Redhawk. Much stronger than a S&W. The Redhawk triggers can be really improved with a Wolfe spring kit. In fact, I like the Redhawk trigger once its' spring is replaced.

I have not had good luck with recent S&W production.

Mrgoosell · January 29, 2013, 11:10 AM

Im probably gonna go with the redhawk 4" barrel (just have to wait awhile so the wife doesn't go nuts, I've bought 5 guns in the last 6 months). For those that have one how is the trigger out of the box?

Bob Wright · January 29, 2013, 11:12 AM

Why do you want a 4" .44 Magnum?

Bob Wright

tnelson31 · January 29, 2013, 11:29 AM

To shoot 44 specials in it.

Mrgoosell · January 29, 2013, 11:29 AM

Quote:

Why do you want a 4" .44 Magnum?

Bob Wright

To shoot lol

WIL TERRY · January 29, 2013, 12:08 PM

BOB WRIGHT asked a serious question. IF all you want is a 44MAG 'shootin'gun' the 4" is the worst one to choose.
AFTER owning and shooting every model and style of USA 44MAG sixguns ever made I am here to say you could NOT make a worst choice of an everyday 'shootin'gun' than a 4" 44MAG.
IF all you want to do mostly is carry it and look at it be my guest.
And so it goes...

codefour · January 29, 2013, 12:18 PM

What is wrong with a 4.2 inch Redhawk in .44 Magnum? I love mine. Especially for the ease of carry. It is very versatile. Yes you lose some velocity but you can still shoot 300 grain slugs at about 1200 fps.

Yes, it may bark and bite a bit more but it is an absolute blast to shoo! BTW, I love shooting my 460 S&W Mag too. I'm a glutton for punishment.

Mrgoosell · January 29, 2013, 12:18 PM

Quote:

BOB WRIGHT asked a serious question. IF all you want is a 44MAG 'shootin'gun' the 4" is the worst one to choose.
AFTER owning and shooting every model and style of USA 44MAG sixguns ever made I am here to say you could NOT make a worst choice of an everyday 'shootin'gun' than a 4" 44MAG.
IF all you want to do mostly is carry it and look at it be my guest.
And so it goes...

A co worker of mine has a taurus 4" 44 mag i think its a tracker. Ive shot about 100 rounds with it. So my question to you is why is a 4" 44 mag a bad choice for a shooting gun?

Nanuk · January 29, 2013, 12:38 PM

Its a personal choice. I had the same dilemma. I wanted another 44revolver to add yo the stable, and I wanted a snubby. Money was not the issue, rather the best gun. I chose the S&W PC 629. Contrary to popular belief you lose more velocity to barrel differences than you do just by having a shorter barrel.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCsylNLWuW4

bipe215 · January 29, 2013, 12:50 PM

I love my Dan Wessons. And you can always add a different barrel length.

Steve

Shep · January 29, 2013, 12:52 PM

The 4" Redhawk's single action trigger is light as a feather.
Double action takes some getting used to, to stay on target.

I find it to be an ideal woods/prairie EDC, but the right holster is essential to deal with its nearly 3 lb weight.
I'm 6'2" / 200 lbs so it doesn't seem a big issue for me.
YMMV

Dan-O · January 29, 2013, 01:58 PM

Here comes the BOOM!!!

Bob Wright · January 29, 2013, 02:10 PM

My point is this: The .44 Magnum cartridge is essentially a long range cartridge. To get the maximun performance, the longer barrels are a must. Not only do they deliver maximum performance, but also extended sight radius. Whatever accuracy you derive from a 4" barrel, will be increased with a 6" or 7 1/2" barrel.

If it is desired to shoot .44 Special level ammunition, then a good .44 Special revolver is the better choice as to weight and convenience.

I have a 4" Model 29, and a 7 1/2" Ruger Blackhawk. The 4" gun has about 5,000 rounds fired through it. The Ruger over 17,000 rounds.

As to up-close power, a .45 Colt is a better choice, and if you are a glutton for punishment, it will serve equally well.

Bob Wright

eldermike · January 29, 2013, 02:12 PM

Had a Dan Wesson that I shot IHMSA with and loved it. But I love the single actions more and no longer own a double action 44mag.

Pond, James Pond · January 29, 2013, 02:21 PM

I'm going to assume that you also include the Redhawk 4.2" in that.

That is what I have and it must be my favourite gun to shoot. Not necessarily the most frequently shot though, but definitely one I am veeeery attached to.

I can't compare it to any others through lack of experience, but I certainly don't feel the need to look for a replacement.

skidder · January 29, 2013, 04:05 PM

I have the 5.5 Redhawk. My hunting and woods carry revolver. When I purchased my Redhawk (96), 5.5" was the shortest available.

For packing I would prefer a 4", but for hunting... 5.5" or longer.

jason_iowa · January 29, 2013, 06:04 PM

Nothing wrong with 4in 44 mag. I love mine. I have a 4in 629 and a 6in 29 and love em both. I would love to get one of the 2.68 629 PC versions with the unfluted cylinder. I don't own any Ruger Redhawks but they make a nice revolver and would not hesitate to buy one. I just prefer the smith.

DealHunter · January 29, 2013, 06:32 PM

Quote:

I would love to get one of the 2.68 629 PC versions with the unfluted cylinder.

I have one, with the wood grips and while it's great with milder loads it's not a "fun plinker" with the heavier stuff. In fact I think my .454 Alaskan is easier with its rubber grips...

jason_iowa · January 29, 2013, 06:41 PM

Ya I would probably put a hogue rubber monogrip on it.

January 29, 2013, 02:44 AM	#1
Mrgoosell Member Join Date: January 19, 2013 Posts: 24	Which .44 magnum revolver In the market for a 44 magnum revolver 4" or less for the barrel. What do you guys recommend?? __________________ Ruger lcr .38 special Sig pro 2022 9mm Savage axis .223 Taurus 990 .22lr & A. Rossi 12 gauge

January 29, 2013, 02:53 AM	#2
BarryLee Senior Member Join Date: July 29, 2010 Location: The ATL (OTP) Posts: 3,946	I really like the S&W revolvers and feel you would not go wrong with a Model 629, but if it were me I would seriously consider the Ruger Redhawk. http://www.ruger.com/products/redhawk/models.html __________________ A major source of objection to a free economy is precisely that it ... gives people what they want instead of what a particular group thinks they ought to want. Underlying most arguments against the free market is a lack of belief in freedom itself. - Milton Friedman

January 29, 2013, 02:59 AM	#4
Mrgoosell Member Join Date: January 19, 2013 Posts: 24	Yeah i looked at the s&w 629. Im also intrigued by the ruger alaskan. Decisions decisions..... __________________ Ruger lcr .38 special Sig pro 2022 9mm Savage axis .223 Taurus 990 .22lr & A. Rossi 12 gauge

January 29, 2013, 11:10 AM	#8
Mrgoosell Member Join Date: January 19, 2013 Posts: 24	Im probably gonna go with the redhawk 4" barrel (just have to wait awhile so the wife doesn't go nuts, I've bought 5 guns in the last 6 months). For those that have one how is the trigger out of the box? __________________ Ruger lcr .38 special Sig pro 2022 9mm Savage axis .223 Taurus 990 .22lr & A. Rossi 12 gauge

January 29, 2013, 12:38 PM	#15
Nanuk Senior Member Join Date: January 2, 2005 Location: Where the deer and the antelope roam. Posts: 3,082	Its a personal choice. I had the same dilemma. I wanted another 44revolver to add yo the stable, and I wanted a snubby. Money was not the issue, rather the best gun. I chose the S&W PC 629. Contrary to popular belief you lose more velocity to barrel differences than you do just by having a shorter barrel. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCsylNLWuW4 __________________ Retired Law Enforcement U. S. Army Veteran Armorer My rifle and pistol are tools, I am the weapon.

January 29, 2013, 02:54 AM	#3
biohazurd Senior Member Join Date: March 29, 2009 Posts: 340	IMO the ruger redhawk is "THE best built .44 double action revolver around. I believe they have a 4" model now. Happy travels

January 29, 2013, 09:17 AM	#5
Tennessee Jed Member Join Date: July 14, 2010 Posts: 92	I love my 4" 629, but I think the decision needs to be based in part on what type of ammo you intend on shooting. If I was planning on shooting mostly full-power factory ammo, I'd probably go with the Redhawk. I think it has a better reputation for toughness.

January 29, 2013, 10:08 AM	#6
kahrguy Senior Member Join Date: October 1, 2012 Posts: 561	Please don't buy a snubby 44mag revolver by going under 4". You loose to much velocity. I would buy the ruger red hawk OR if you find a old dan wesson 44 buy it regaurdless of barrel lenght as that can be swapped out in 2 minutes from one barrel to another. EWKarms is in the process of makeing 44 mag barrels and shrouds too.

January 29, 2013, 11:02 AM	#7
codefour Senior Member Join Date: April 2, 2012 Posts: 114	If you want the John Deere of .44 Mag, get the Redhawk. Much stronger than a S&W. The Redhawk triggers can be really improved with a Wolfe spring kit. In fact, I like the Redhawk trigger once its' spring is replaced. I have not had good luck with recent S&W production.

January 29, 2013, 11:12 AM	#9
Bob Wright Senior Member Join Date: July 10, 2012 Location: Memphis, Tennessee Posts: 2,989	Why do you want a 4" .44 Magnum? Bob Wright

January 29, 2013, 11:29 AM	#10
tnelson31 Member Join Date: September 12, 2012 Posts: 36	To shoot 44 specials in it.

January 29, 2013, 12:08 PM	#12
WIL TERRY Senior Member Join Date: July 6, 2000 Location: BLACK HILLS Posts: 1,322	BOB WRIGHT asked a serious question. IF all you want is a 44MAG 'shootin'gun' the 4" is the worst one to choose. AFTER owning and shooting every model and style of USA 44MAG sixguns ever made I am here to say you could NOT make a worst choice of an everyday 'shootin'gun' than a 4" 44MAG. IF all you want to do mostly is carry it and look at it be my guest. And so it goes...

January 29, 2013, 12:18 PM	#13
codefour Senior Member Join Date: April 2, 2012 Posts: 114	What is wrong with a 4.2 inch Redhawk in .44 Magnum? I love mine. Especially for the ease of carry. It is very versatile. Yes you lose some velocity but you can still shoot 300 grain slugs at about 1200 fps. Yes, it may bark and bite a bit more but it is an absolute blast to shoo! BTW, I love shooting my 460 S&W Mag too. I'm a glutton for punishment.

January 29, 2013, 12:50 PM	#16
bipe215 Senior Member Join Date: December 3, 2008 Posts: 122	I love my Dan Wessons. And you can always add a different barrel length. Steve

January 29, 2013, 12:52 PM	#17
Shep Member Join Date: April 19, 2009 Location: NW North Dakota Posts: 57	The 4" Redhawk's single action trigger is light as a feather. Double action takes some getting used to, to stay on target. I find it to be an ideal woods/prairie EDC, but the right holster is essential to deal with its nearly 3 lb weight. I'm 6'2" / 200 lbs so it doesn't seem a big issue for me. YMMV

January 29, 2013, 01:58 PM	#18
Dan-O Senior Member Join Date: August 3, 2011 Location: Northern Colorado Posts: 969	Here comes the BOOM!!!

January 29, 2013, 02:10 PM	#19
Bob Wright Senior Member Join Date: July 10, 2012 Location: Memphis, Tennessee Posts: 2,989	My point is this: The .44 Magnum cartridge is essentially a long range cartridge. To get the maximun performance, the longer barrels are a must. Not only do they deliver maximum performance, but also extended sight radius. Whatever accuracy you derive from a 4" barrel, will be increased with a 6" or 7 1/2" barrel. If it is desired to shoot .44 Special level ammunition, then a good .44 Special revolver is the better choice as to weight and convenience. I have a 4" Model 29, and a 7 1/2" Ruger Blackhawk. The 4" gun has about 5,000 rounds fired through it. The Ruger over 17,000 rounds. As to up-close power, a .45 Colt is a better choice, and if you are a glutton for punishment, it will serve equally well. Bob Wright

January 29, 2013, 02:12 PM	#20
eldermike Senior Member Join Date: January 24, 2013 Location: NC Posts: 545	Had a Dan Wesson that I shot IHMSA with and loved it. But I love the single actions more and no longer own a double action 44mag.

January 29, 2013, 02:21 PM	#21
Pond, James Pond Senior Member Join Date: July 12, 2011 Location: Top of the Baltic stack Posts: 6,079	I'm going to assume that you also include the Redhawk 4.2" in that. That is what I have and it must be my favourite gun to shoot. Not necessarily the most frequently shot though, but definitely one I am veeeery attached to. I can't compare it to any others through lack of experience, but I certainly don't feel the need to look for a replacement. __________________ When the right to effective self-defence is denied, that right to self-defence which remains is essentially symbolic. Freedom: Please enjoy responsibly.

January 29, 2013, 04:05 PM	#22
skidder Senior Member Join Date: August 17, 2008 Location: Montana Posts: 640	I have the 5.5 Redhawk. My hunting and woods carry revolver. When I purchased my Redhawk (96), 5.5" was the shortest available. For packing I would prefer a 4", but for hunting... 5.5" or longer. __________________ Gun permit?? A bread crumb tossed to a sleeping society awoken by the sound of complacency. "They are for your own good", and "you will understand when you see all the lives they save". Yes master, what else will you toss me from your bag of infringements?? Do you want me to roll over and play dead? I do that very well. --skidder

January 29, 2013, 06:04 PM	#23
jason_iowa Senior Member Join Date: July 30, 2011 Posts: 686	Nothing wrong with 4in 44 mag. I love mine. I have a 4in 629 and a 6in 29 and love em both. I would love to get one of the 2.68 629 PC versions with the unfluted cylinder. I don't own any Ruger Redhawks but they make a nice revolver and would not hesitate to buy one. I just prefer the smith.

January 29, 2013, 06:41 PM	#25
jason_iowa Senior Member Join Date: July 30, 2011 Posts: 686	Ya I would probably put a hogue rubber monogrip on it.