1987 Ruger Redhawk .44 Magnum Double-Action Revolver

The Overbuilt Magnum: Mid-1980s Big-Bore Engineering 

The Ruger Redhawk, serial 501-95214, tracks directly to factory production records from 1987. Introduced in 1980, the Redhawk was Ruger's first large-bore, double-action revolver designed explicitly to handle the continuous pressures of heavy .44 Magnum field loads. Unlike traditional designs of the era, the Redhawk was engineered with an oversized, investment-cast steel frame that lacks a removable side plate, providing maximum structural rigidity. It features a unique triple-locking cylinder system that locks at the crane, rear, and bottom of the frame window. Additionally, designer Harry Sefried utilized a singular, single-coil spring system to power both the hammer and the trigger. This mid-1980s example represents the classic configuration of the heavy-frame platform, predating the later shift toward the heavier, extended-frame Super Redhawk series.

Condition and Action Highlights

Action: Double-Action / Single-Action (DA/SA) operating system. The massive six-shot cylinder locks up tightly upon indexing, with smooth mechanical timing across all chambers.

Condition: Excellent condition. The stainless steel surfaces are well-preserved, showing a bright, uniform factory finish with only minor and superficial traces of handling.

Cylinder & Hardware: The cylinder shows an exceptionally faint turn-line from mechanical indexing, indicating minimal handling. The original adjustable rear sight assembly and red-ramp front sight blade are clean and properly aligned.

Grips: Fitted with an aftermarket Hogue rubber grip, which provides an ergonomic finger-groove profile and superior recoil absorption for heavy magnum loads. The original wooden factory grips are not included.

Bore: The internal bore is bright and clean with sharp factory rifling, reflecting minimal use and a clear maintenance history.

Sights: Factory adjustable rear and upgraded fiber optic front sight.

Packaging: Complete with its original factory box, including the Ruger “bread bag", confirming its status as a highly desirable package.

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (Southport, CT)

Model: Redhawk (Standard Configuration)

Serial Number: 501-95214

Year of Manufacture: 1987

Caliber: .44 Magnum / .44 Special

Barrel length: 7.5" barrel

Capacity: 6 Rounds

Finish: Satin Stainless Steel