Ruger Redhawk: A revolver that will last forever

Sturm Ruger has acquired a fine reputation for their heavy revolvers, and Ruger Redhawk is one of their masterpieces. This model is loved by the users and it is so quality that it will probably last forever.

Design

The Ruger Redhawk is a conventional double-action solid frame revolver made of stainless steel, with the cylinder swinging out on a crane for loading and ejection. The cylinder has ample metal on the outside of the chambers and is securely locked by an additional lug in the crane which engages into the frame, as well as the usual ejector rod locking points. A small but important detail is that the cylinder locking notches are located off the axis of the chambers so that they are not liable to weaken the walls of the chambers.

The barrel is ribbed and both the rib and the ejector rod shroud are forged in one piece with the barrel. The foresight is of blued steel with a red insert, and the back-sight, also of blued steel, is a Partridge type notch with a white line around it and is capable of adjustment for both windage and elevation.

The clockwork has been redesigned and is extremely simple, robust, and reliable. Moreover, it can be easily dismantled for cleaning; the grips are removed, after which the hammer can be removed by inserting a pin (provided, and kept inside the grip) into the mainspring so that when the hammer is cocked, tension is taken off it and the pivot can be removed and the hammer slipped free.

The mainspring can now be removed, and by pulling on the stud behind the trigger guard the entire trigger guard and trigger mechanism can be taken from the frame. There is a rising transfer bar that acts as an intermediary between the hammer and the firing pin only when the trigger is correctly pressed so that the pistol cannot be accidentally discharged.

Ruger Redhawk .44 Magnum

On the range, this elegant pistol performs well; like any.44 Magnum is a handful, but the weight and site allow good control and it is capable of close groups at all ranges. For day-to-day practice the .44 Special can be used, although the sights require altering; with this loading, one can shoot all day without discomfort.

Ruger Redhawk is a very durable platform, especially if you plan on running mag factory rounds or handloading extra hot. They are solid well made and reliable.

Cleaning steps

You’d want to get your hands on a pistol cleaning kit of the appropriate size for that caliber. Start with a swab to remove all of the unburnt powder and other dirt, then follow up with oil on the appropriate parts. Your owner’s manual will have information on where to put some oil and usually how much to use. Nevermore than a few drops unless otherwise specified.

Technical specification: Ruger Redhawk