The 44 Magnum revolver has been the go-to firearm of several leading characters and cowboys on the big screen. But it's also a reliable handgun when it comes to real-life shooting applications, such as hunting, competition, and personal protection.
However, with a wide range of guns out there, how do you choose the best 44 Magnum revolver?
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Best of the Best 44 Magnum Revolvers on the Market
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A Brief History of 44 Magnum
The 44 Magnum is also referred to as 10.9x33mmR or .44 Remington Magnum. It was made in 1950 and was commercially manufactured five years after its introduction.
One of its developers was a writer and rancher named Elmer Keith. He encouraged manufacturers Smith & Wesson and Remington to make a commercial version of this cartridge.
Since then, gun enthusiasts have started to learn about the 44 Magnum's performance and durability. However, it didn't secure a spot in law enforcement. But it became a sought-after cartridge for hunting and self-defense.
Currently, the 44 Magnum remains an all-around and one of the most dominant large-bore cartridges on the market. That's why it has maintained its reputation as the “most powerful handgun cartridge in the world.”
Top 5 44 Magnum Revolvers
1. Ruger Super Redhawk
For gun aficionados who are searching for an impressive 44 Magnum revolver, the Ruger Super Redhawk is your best option. This is an effective firearm for bear hunting as well as long-range shooting.
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The handgun's smooth black rubber grip is the first thing that'll catch your eye. Even though the 44 Magnum delivers a heavy recoil, this rubber grip lets you grasp the gun tightly, preventing any accidents. And since it allows for more comfortable shooting, the grip also helps beginners to stabilize the shot.
The Ruger Super Redhawk also features a long frame, which helps efficiently tame the recoil, especially when big-game hunting. Its cylinder has a triple-locking system, which securely attaches the revolver in its position.
Additionally, the mainframe serves as a base where you can attach the scope rings, which can help enhance your shooting accuracy.
Performance
This firearm delivers explosive power, yet it can make a quick, clean kill when hunting. You may also depend on this firearm when facing a life-threatening situation.
This is because the Ruger Super Redhawk is one of the more accurate 44 Magnum revolvers out there. It can precisely hit targets, even during follow-up shots.
What's more, it utilizes a transfer bar mechanism, which provides unparalleled security against unintentional discharge. This means that you don't have to be afraid of any accidental firing, even if you suddenly drop the gun. The weapon won't shoot unless the trigger is pulled.
2. Smith & Wesson Model 29
Of course, this list won't be complete without the 44 Magnum revolver that actually started it all–the S&W Model 29.
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
If you wish to have a weapon that's been featured in a movie and offers practical shooting applications in the real world at the same time, then the Model 29 is the complete package for you.
The Model 29 was used in a film series and made famous by a San Francisco police detective named “Dirty Harry” Callahan portrayed by Clint Eastwood. It comes in four-inch and 6.5-inch barrel lengths, which are made of carbon steel and with a blue frame finish.
This makes the Model 29 a relatively heavy handgun, weighing around 2.7 lbs. But take this gun to the range, and you'll surely receive looks of admiration and envy, especially from gun enthusiasts who'll easily recognize this classic piece.
Performance
This weapon is described by Dirty Harry as “the most powerful handgun ever built”. And although this may sound fictional coming from a movie, the Model 29 has lived up to this reputation in real life.
Since the Model 29 is the first revolver with a 44 Magnum cartridge, you might think that this isn't the most powerful firearm anymore. Well, think again.
It's one of the very few handguns that still offers both power and cachet. And even though more guns and ammunitions have since developed, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 remains to be the most authoritative and practical revolver still in production. Just learn how to properly take care of it, and this firearm might even outlast you.
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3. Taurus Raging Hunter
If you want to go all-out with your 44 Magnum revolver, then there's no other way to go big and go all the way unless it's a Taurus Raging Hunter.
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Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The Raging Hunter comes in a large frame. With an 8.37-inch barrel length, it's one of the longest 44 Magnum revolvers on the market. However, this also means that it's the toughest to conceal.
The good thing is that it weighs relatively light for its length. Because of its angular barrel design and aluminum alloy shroud, it may actually be one of the lightest handguns you'll get your hands on. This makes the Raging Hunter an ideal sidearm weapon for hunting.
Its matte black and two-tone finish will capture your attention. It also features a Picatinny rail that's optic-ready and can handle heavy mounts without sacrificing its reliability and performance. It utilizes a fixed front sight and an adjustable rear sight to improve your shooting experience.
Performance
This 44 Magnum revolver can be considered as the “next-generation revolver.” Its power and accuracy are first-class.
It's suitable not only for short- to medium-range hunting but also for self-defense and recreational shooting. It can hit targets that are more than a hundred yards away. Plus, you can use it both as a single-action and a double-action revolver.
4. Korth NXR 44 Magnum
The partnership of German manufacturer Korth and American firearm company Nighthawk Custom gave birth to a next-level revolver–the Korth NXR.
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
With its unique and shocking appearance, you'll get the impression that this handgun is out-of-this-world.
The NXR sports a Diamond Like Coating or DLC finish and Turkish Walnut grips that give the entire gun a durable and fierce look. However, this metal and wood combination contributes to the gun's considerable weight of almost 3.5 lbs.
It comes in a four- and six-inch hammer-forged barrel, which has been ventilated so that the revolver would cool down faster. The grips are big enough to accommodate large-sized hands.
Picatinny rails are also integrated both on the frame and under the barrel, so you can add various mounts, such as lasers and lights. However, the release is positioned on the left side, which may be more favorable for right-handed shooters.
Performance
Korth revolvers are undeniably excellent, and the NXR isn't an exception. This firearm delivers a powerhouse performance in various shooting applications. But it's most ideal for competition purposes. It can stand up well to rough handling and various rigorous activities.
Another reason why the NXR is on this list is because of the workmanship and artistry that were put into creating this revolver.
Every time you pull the trigger, your hand will just effortlessly and comfortably rotate the cylinder. And it's this particular factor–it's light and smooth double-action trigger pull–that makes NXR extraordinary.
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5. Smith & Wesson Model 69
If you want a 44 Magnum revolver that you can carry around with you for self-defense, then the Model 69 is for you. Its small build makes it possible to be concealed in a belly band.
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The S&W Model 69 is made of quality stainless steel, which also gives the gun its timeless look. Its two-piece barrel length is only 2.75 inches, but you're getting a 5-round capacity.
Its barrel is designed in such a way that both the gun's accuracy and tension are improved. Moreover, a bright red front ramp helps you acquire your target easier and faster.
Performance
Yes, squeezing in a wrist-bending power into a compact-sized revolver is possible. And the Model 69 is living proof that you can combine power and portability into one handgun.
This revolver allows you to utilize either single action with a trigger pull of around 5 lbs or double action with a trigger pull of around 12 lbs. This gives you the flexibility to switch between two different pressures, depending on your situation.
It delivers full intensity regardless of its size. However, if you need a gun that can take down big cats, feral dogs, wild boars, and bears, you may want to look for other options on this list.
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Before you purchase your very own 44 Magnum revolver, make sure first that it's really your desired type of handgun.
Are you hunting? Hitting targets that are hundreds of yards away? Looking for concealed carry?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a 44 Magnum revolver is for you.
However, if you're a first-timer, it might take some time for you to get used to this weapon, especially with its intimidating power. Nevertheless, it's definitely a handgun you can depend on. It's powerful and versatile, even in long-range shooting. And it can cause high damage, even though it's a one-handed gun.
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