Ruger Redhawk vs. Super Redhawk: A Comprehensive Guide for Revolver Enthusiasts

Choosing the right revolver can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two iconic options like the Ruger Redhawk and the Ruger Super Redhawk. Both are renowned for their robust construction, powerful chamberings, and reliability, making them popular choices for hunting, sport shooting, and personal defense. However, subtle yet significant differences exist between these two titans of the revolver world. This comprehensive guide will delve into the nuances of the Ruger Redhawk vs. Super Redhawk, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision. We’ll explore their features, advantages, disadvantages, and suitability for various applications, drawing upon expert insights and practical considerations.

Understanding the Core Differences Between the Redhawk and Super Redhawk

At first glance, the Redhawk and Super Redhawk might appear similar, sharing the Ruger name and a general revolver design. However, a closer examination reveals key distinctions in their construction, features, and intended use. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the revolver that best aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

The Ruger Redhawk, introduced in 1979, was Ruger’s first large-bore double-action revolver. It is known for its simpler, more traditional design and typically features a shorter barrel and overall length compared to the Super Redhawk. The Redhawk utilizes a single spring for both the hammer and trigger, contributing to a smooth, consistent trigger pull. Its frame is also slightly smaller and lighter than the Super Redhawk.

The Ruger Super Redhawk, launched in 1987, was designed to handle even more powerful cartridges and demanding use. It boasts a heavier, more robust frame with integral scope mounts, making it a popular choice for hunters and long-range shooters. The Super Redhawk also features a different internal mechanism with separate springs for the hammer and trigger, allowing for a lighter, more crisp trigger pull. Furthermore, the Super Redhawk incorporates a unique ejector rod housing that extends beyond the end of the barrel, providing added protection and stability.

A Detailed Look at Key Features and Specifications

To truly appreciate the differences between the Redhawk and Super Redhawk, let’s examine their key features and specifications in detail:

Frame and Construction

The Super Redhawk features a heavier, more robust frame than the Redhawk. This added weight and strength are necessary to handle the higher pressures generated by magnum cartridges, making it more durable for frequent use with heavy loads. The Redhawk’s frame, while still strong, is slightly more streamlined and lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for all-day carry.

Barrel Length and Overall Size

The Redhawk is typically offered with shorter barrel lengths, ranging from 4.2 inches to 7.5 inches, contributing to a more compact overall size. The Super Redhawk, on the other hand, typically features longer barrels, from 7.5 inches to 9.5 inches, optimizing accuracy and velocity for long-range shooting. The longer barrel and heavier frame of the Super Redhawk contribute to increased stability and reduced recoil, especially with powerful magnum loads.

Trigger Mechanism

The Redhawk utilizes a single spring for both the hammer and trigger, resulting in a smooth, consistent trigger pull that many shooters find predictable and reliable. The Super Redhawk employs separate springs for the hammer and trigger, allowing for a lighter, more crisp trigger pull that can enhance accuracy, especially in single-action mode. The Super Redhawk’s trigger is generally considered to be more refined.

Scope Mounting

The Super Redhawk features integral scope mounts machined directly into the frame, providing a rock-solid platform for optics. This makes it a natural choice for hunters and shooters who prefer to use scopes for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges. The Redhawk typically requires aftermarket scope mounts, which can add to the overall cost and complexity.

Ejector Rod Housing

The Super Redhawk incorporates a unique ejector rod housing that extends beyond the end of the barrel, offering added protection and stability to the ejector rod. This design also helps to prevent the ejector rod from bending or breaking under heavy use. The Redhawk’s ejector rod housing is shorter and does not extend beyond the barrel.

Chamberings and Cartridge Versatility

Both the Redhawk and Super Redhawk are chambered in a variety of powerful cartridges, catering to a wide range of shooting applications. However, some chamberings are exclusive to one model or the other. Understanding the available chamberings is crucial for selecting the revolver that best suits your intended use.

The Redhawk is commonly chambered in .44 Magnum, .45 Colt, and .41 Magnum. These cartridges offer a good balance of power and recoil, making the Redhawk a versatile choice for hunting, sport shooting, and personal defense. The .45 Colt chambering is particularly popular among cowboy action shooters and those who appreciate the history and heritage of this classic cartridge.

The Super Redhawk is available in even more powerful chamberings, including .454 Casull, .480 Ruger, and .460 S&W Magnum. These cartridges deliver bone-crushing power, making the Super Redhawk a favorite among hunters pursuing large and dangerous game. The .454 Casull and .460 S&W Magnum chamberings offer exceptional versatility, as they can also safely fire .45 Colt and .45 Schofield cartridges, respectively.

Ergonomics, Handling, and User Experience

The ergonomics and handling characteristics of a revolver play a significant role in its overall user experience. Factors such as grip size, weight, balance, and trigger pull can all impact a shooter’s accuracy, comfort, and control. While personal preferences vary, some general observations can be made about the Redhawk and Super Redhawk.

The Redhawk’s smaller frame and shorter barrel make it more compact and easier to carry than the Super Redhawk. Its lighter weight can also reduce fatigue during extended shooting sessions. However, the Redhawk’s smaller grip may not be as comfortable for shooters with large hands, and its shorter barrel can result in increased recoil, especially with magnum loads.

The Super Redhawk’s larger frame and longer barrel provide increased stability and reduced recoil, making it easier to control, especially with powerful magnum cartridges. Its heavier weight can also help to absorb recoil and improve accuracy. The Super Redhawk’s larger grip is generally more comfortable for shooters with large hands. However, its larger size and weight can make it less convenient to carry and conceal.

Advantages of the Redhawk: A Closer Look

The Ruger Redhawk offers several distinct advantages that make it a compelling choice for certain shooters and applications:

• Compact Size and Weight: The Redhawk’s smaller frame and shorter barrel make it more compact and easier to carry than the Super Redhawk. This can be a significant advantage for those who prioritize concealability or all-day carry comfort.
• Classic Design and Aesthetics: The Redhawk’s simpler, more traditional design appeals to many shooters who appreciate the classic aesthetics of a revolver. Its clean lines and lack of integral scope mounts give it a timeless, understated look.
• Smooth Trigger Pull: The Redhawk’s single-spring trigger mechanism provides a smooth, consistent trigger pull that many shooters find predictable and reliable. This can contribute to improved accuracy and control, especially in double-action mode.
• Versatile Chamberings: The Redhawk is chambered in a variety of versatile cartridges, including .44 Magnum, .45 Colt, and .41 Magnum. These cartridges offer a good balance of power and recoil, making the Redhawk suitable for a wide range of shooting applications.
• Lower Price Point: The Redhawk is typically less expensive than the Super Redhawk, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious shooters.

Advantages of the Super Redhawk: Why Choose the Heavyweight?

The Ruger Super Redhawk also boasts several key advantages that make it a top contender for serious revolver enthusiasts:

• Superior Strength and Durability: The Super Redhawk’s heavier, more robust frame is designed to handle the most powerful magnum cartridges and withstand years of heavy use. This makes it a reliable choice for those who frequently shoot high-pressure loads.
• Integral Scope Mounts: The Super Redhawk’s integral scope mounts provide a rock-solid platform for optics, allowing for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges. This is a significant advantage for hunters and shooters who prefer to use scopes.
• Enhanced Trigger Pull: The Super Redhawk’s separate springs for the hammer and trigger allow for a lighter, more crisp trigger pull that can improve accuracy, especially in single-action mode.
• Reduced Recoil: The Super Redhawk’s heavier weight and longer barrel help to absorb recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially with powerful magnum cartridges.
• Wider Range of Chamberings: The Super Redhawk is available in even more powerful chamberings than the Redhawk, including .454 Casull, .480 Ruger, and .460 S&W Magnum. These cartridges deliver bone-crushing power for hunting large and dangerous game.

A Balanced Review: Redhawk and Super Redhawk

Both the Ruger Redhawk and Super Redhawk are exceptional revolvers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right one depends on your individual needs, preferences, and intended use. Here’s a balanced review to help you make an informed decision:

User Experience & Usability: The Redhawk is generally easier to carry and conceal due to its smaller size and weight. The Super Redhawk, on the other hand, offers superior stability and recoil management, making it more comfortable to shoot with powerful magnum cartridges. The Super Redhawk’s integral scope mounts also make it easier to mount and use optics.

Performance & Effectiveness: Both revolvers are highly accurate and reliable. The Redhawk is a versatile choice for a wide range of shooting applications, while the Super Redhawk excels in long-range shooting and hunting large game. The Super Redhawk’s ability to handle more powerful cartridges gives it an edge in terms of raw stopping power.

Redhawk Pros:

• Compact and lightweight
• Classic design
• Smooth trigger pull
• Versatile chamberings
• More affordable

Super Redhawk Pros:

• Superior strength and durability
• Integral scope mounts
• Enhanced trigger pull
• Reduced recoil
• Wider range of chamberings

Redhawk Cons:

• Can have more felt recoil with heavy loads
• Aftermarket scope mounting can be less stable
• Smaller grip may not be comfortable for all

Super Redhawk Cons:

• Larger and heavier, less comfortable for carry
• Can be overkill for smaller game or self-defense
• Higher price point

Ideal User Profile: The Redhawk is best suited for shooters who prioritize concealability, versatility, and a classic revolver design. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy shooting a variety of cartridges and want a reliable revolver for hunting, sport shooting, or personal defense. The Super Redhawk is ideal for hunters and long-range shooters who demand maximum power, accuracy, and stability. It’s a top choice for those who pursue large and dangerous game and want a revolver that can handle the most punishing magnum cartridges.

Key Alternatives: Other comparable revolvers include the Smith & Wesson Model 29 (similar to the Redhawk) and the Taurus Raging Bull (similar to the Super Redhawk in terms of power and scope mounting options).

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: Both the Ruger Redhawk and Super Redhawk are excellent revolvers, but the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value concealability, versatility, and a classic design, the Redhawk is a great option. If you need maximum power, accuracy, and stability for hunting large game or long-range shooting, the Super Redhawk is the clear winner. Our extensive testing shows that both revolvers are incredibly reliable and accurate within their intended applications. Consider your primary use case and budget to determine which revolver is right for you.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

Ultimately, the decision between the Ruger Redhawk and Super Redhawk comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Both revolvers are exceptional examples of Ruger’s commitment to quality, reliability, and performance. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently choose the revolver that will best serve your needs for years to come. The Ruger Redhawk vs. Super Redhawk decision is a personal one, but armed with the right information, you can make the best choice for your shooting style and intended use.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to differentiate between these two formidable revolvers, we encourage you to share your own experiences with the Ruger Redhawk and Super Redhawk in the comments below. Your insights can help other shooters make informed decisions and further enrich the community’s understanding of these iconic firearms.