The Ruger Redhawk .357 Magnum 4.2in 8-Round Satin Stainless is a heavy-duty revolver built for shooters who demand reliability and precision in a compact package. This stainless steel wheelgun features a 4.20-inch cold hammer-forged barrel, adjustable rear sight, and a patented transfer bar safety for secure handling. It’s a solid choice for urban self-defense or range work, with a triple-locking cylinder that keeps rounds aligned shot after shot.
| Manufacturer | Ruger |
|---|---|
| Model | Redhawk .357 Magnum 4.2in |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and barrel |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | Approximately 44 ounces (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel – The 4.20-inch barrel is rifled from solid steel, delivering consistent accuracy and long service life. Why it matters: You get tight groups at the range and reliable shot placement in a defensive scenario.
- Triple-Locking Cylinder – The cylinder locks at the front, rear, and crane for positive alignment. Why it matters: This reduces play and ensures the cylinder stays indexed under heavy recoil, critical for follow-up shots.
- Patented Transfer Bar Safety – The hammer rests on a transfer bar, not the firing pin, unless the trigger is fully pulled. Why it matters: It prevents accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped, a key concern for apartment dwellers with loaded guns.
- Adjustable Rear Sight with Ramp Front – The rear sight adjusts for windage and elevation, paired with a red ramp front. Why it matters: You can zero the revolver for different loads, making it versatile for home defense or competition.
- Hardwood Grips – Checkered walnut grips provide a secure hold, even with sweaty hands. Why it matters: Control matters in a defensive situation, and these grips reduce muzzle flip without adding bulk.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the urban CCW holder who wants a backup or primary firearm with no manual safety to fumble with. Apartment dwellers who need a reliable home defense gun that won’t over-penetrate thin walls will appreciate the .357 Magnum’s stopping power with controlled expansion rounds. It’s also for shooters who prefer the simplicity of a revolver over a semi-auto’s slide and magazine.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Rugged stainless steel construction handles thousands of rounds without rust, a real plus in humid city environments.
- Pro: 8-round capacity is generous for a .357 revolver, giving you two extra shots over a typical 6-rounder.
- Con: At 44 ounces unloaded, it’s heavy for concealed carry—plan for a sturdy belt holster or keep it for home defense instead.
Comparison: Ruger Redhawk vs. Competitors
| Feature | Ruger Redhawk .357 Magnum 4.2in | Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus | Colt Python 4.25in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 8 rounds | 7 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.20 inches | 4 inches | 4.25 inches |
| Weight | 44 oz | 38 oz | 42 oz |
| Frame Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Safety | Transfer bar | Hammer block | Transfer bar |
| Price (approx) | $1,121 | $1,050 | $1,500 |
The Redhawk beats both on capacity with 8 rounds, and its triple-lock cylinder is more robust than the 686’s standard lockup. The Python has a smoother trigger out of the box, but the Redhawk’s single-spring trigger system improves with use and costs $400 less.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the barrel length on the Ruger Redhawk .357 Magnum 4.2in?
The barrel measures exactly 4.20 inches from the muzzle to the front of the cylinder. This length balances concealability with ballistic performance for .357 Magnum loads.
Is this revolver compatible with moon clips?
Yes, the cylinder is relieved for moon clips, which speed up reloads. You can also load without clips using standard .357 Magnum or .38 Special rounds.
How much does the Ruger Redhawk weigh?
Per manufacturer specs, the unloaded weight is approximately 44 ounces (2.75 pounds). Loaded with 8 rounds, it’s closer to 48 ounces.
What safety features does the Redhawk have?
It uses Ruger’s patented transfer bar safety, which physically blocks the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully depressed. This reduces the chance of accidental discharge if the gun is dropped.
Can I use .38 Special ammunition in this revolver?
Absolutely. The Redhawk is chambered for .357 Magnum, but it safely fires .38 Special rounds with less recoil, ideal for practice or low-recoil defensive loads.
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Last updated: April 2026
According to recent firearms market data, revolvers account for over 15% of handgun sales in urban areas, with the Redhawk being a top seller for its durability. Browse more options in our Revolvers category, or check out Home Defense Gear and Concealed Carry for compatible accessories.
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