7 Best 44 Mag Revolver Reviews of 2023 | Legendary Caliber Handguns With Unsurpassed Firepower

3 Top Picks

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35 Hours Of Research

25 Products Considered

A cylinder with 6 rounds, no compromise of any kind — that’s what I learned from experimenting with 44 Mag revolvers. The fact that you consider buying one of these hand cannons means you’re about to enter a whole new realm of firepower. Now, let's try to find the best 44 mag revolver for you!

With an incredibly high caliber, a 44 Mag handgun provides the powerful boom to level anything that walks on four with the ground—or two, if you’re planning to floor an intruder! Since you don’t want to commit an expensive (or cheap) mistake, I filtered out my gun collection and brought you my picks for the best 44 Mag revolver. I have dedicated reviews of 9mm and 10mm handguns and also best single action revolver lineup just to be sure I covered various shooting preferences. Interested in concealed carry or home defense? I got your back there, as well.

1. [Overall Best 44 Magnum Revolver]
Smith & Wesson Model 69

Smith & Wesson Model 69 revolver

Editor's Rating 

5/5

2. [Best Budget 44 Mag Revolver]
Ruger Super Blackhawk 

Ruger Super Blackhawk revolver

Editor's Rating 

4.8/5

3. [Best Double-Action 44 Mag Revolver]
Ruger Super Redhawk

Ruger Super Redhawk revolver

Editor's Rating 

4.7/5

Getting Your First 44 Mag Revolver?

Let me walk you through some initial thoughts that I had when I first laid my hands on a .44 Magnum revolver. My transition to 44 Mag handguns was preceded by firing a myriad of 9mm Glocks or SIGs. After a while, I knew I was ready for the big game, revolvers. Why?

Frequent trigger pulls and having a fair amount of retention with recoil tolerance help with firing 44 Mag revolvers. However, you don’t have to be a professional marksman to get one. Note that the key to perfection with revolvers is the frequent visits to shooting ranges since revolvers aren’t the type of gun that should lie dormant in a gun case until some problems arise.

One thing that some may find restricting is the limited capacity. 44 Mag revolvers typically hold 6 cartridges in the revolving cylinder, and some cylinders are designed to accommodate only 5. With limited cartridges also comes intricate reloading, where you’re more likely to insert one cartridge at a time to the 6 chambers.

Yet, I’d say that a 44 Mag revolver can do with one trigger pull what a 9mm pistol can do with three, whether you’re hunting or carrying it for self-defense. Afterward, all the limitations you’ll get exposed to with the best .44 magnum revolvers will convert into “norms” that you’ll get used to with every fired cartridge!

Product Name

Benefits

Rating

Smith & Wesson Model 69 revolver
  • Pocket-sized form factor

  • Double or single action

  • Heavy-duty cylinder and hammer

4.8/5

Ruger Super Blackhawk revolver
  • Great for beginners

  • Sturdy build quality

  • Fluted and wide cylinder

4.8/5

Ruger Super Redhawk revolver
  • Impressive recoil reduction

  • Can be used in both double and single actions

  • Detachable front sight (red ramp)

4.7/5

Smith & Wesson Model 29 revolver
  • Easy-to-pull hammer

  • Crafted from rigid carbon steel

  • Vintage-looking, comfortable grip

4.6/5

Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter revolver
  • Scope-ready

  • Great recoil retention

  • Comfortable grip

4.5/5

Cimarron Bad Boy revolver
  • Affordable

  • Excellent out-of-the-box sights

  • Safe mechanism for hammer cocking

4.5/5

Smith & Wesson Model 629 revolver
  • Optimal for beginner revolver shooters

  • Fluted cylinder that’s easy to spin

  • Easy-to-control recoil

4.4/5

A Brief History of the .44 Magnum

Bear in mind that when we say .44 Magnum, we’re referring to the cartridge, not to the firearm. Firstly, I’d regard Magnum guns as unbeatable since they’re primarily made to fire cartridges whose calibers (the diameter of a gun’s barrel) can’t withstand normal conditions. That’s what makes a 44 Magnum revolver powerful.

These cartridges were the contraption that Elmer Keith brought to life. He was obsessed with the idea of designing a high-pressure load (the cartridge’s base) that ruthlessly propels weighty bullets. He dreamt of a cartridge that’d achieve unrelenting penetration, and the .44 Magnum was born.

With an initial intent for handgun hunting, Keith enticed both Remington and Smith & Wesson to consider the potential of this cartridge. Soon after, Remington undertook the manufacturing of the cartridge, while Smith & Wesson introduced its first 44 Mag revolver, the Model 29, in 1956.

Despite being designated for sidearms, it didn’t take long until this mighty cartridge was incorporated into other firearms, like lever-action, bolt-action, and semi-auto rifles. The implementation of this caliber in rifles and revolvers has proven competence in medium-sized games, like hunting deer, antelope, and feral hogs.

Nowadays, the usage of 44 Mag revolvers has transcended the notion of handgun hunting, especially after the Model 29’s unforgettable appearance in Dirty Harry. These merciless hand cannons have unveiled the “high-risk, high-reward” option for precision-seeking marksmen.

Modern .44 Magnum Firearms

I bet you’re not here for a CCW (concealed-carry weapon) piece since 44 Magnum firearms, especially revolvers, aren’t made for this purpose. Predominantly, these revolvers tend to print on your shirt if you hide it in a holster around the waistband. I’d say 44 Mag revolvers are as good as 9mm pistols when it comes to self-defense.

After the adoption of this caliber in some rifles for hunting, the 44 Mag revolver decided to drift away from the handgun hunting scene to the self-defense one. When this diversion happened, marksmen began to think of these revolvers as primary firearms, especially after the emergence of scoped revolvers.

Most shooters may regard 44 Mag revolvers as obsolete because the modern ones didn’t introduce anything new to the firearm industry. However, modern revolvers now feature a swing-out mechanism, where the cylinder hinges on a pivoting crane that opens it sideways for reloading the chambers.

I also feel grateful for the brilliant speedloader solution for reloading. These speedloaders resemble the cylinder layout in every 6-shooter, and they allow you to refill the 6 chambers simultaneously instead of inserting separate cartridges to every chamber.

So, reloading has become a 2-click process that works through pressing the star lying in the middle of the cylinder to release spent cartridges and fitting the speedloader into the empty chambers, like little legos!

Best 44 Mag Revolver Reviews

1. [Overall Best 44 Magnum Revolver] Smith & Wesson Model 69

5/5

Features: 

  • Lengthy underlug for better recoil control for professionals.
  • The 2.75-inch barrel complements the concealability of the revolver.
  • Supports both .44 Magnum and .44 Special.
  • Great out-of-the-box rear and front sights that effortlessly align for quick shots.
  • Comfortable grip for marksman-grade handling.
  • Stainless steel body that withstands hot ballistics.

Smith & Wesson Model 69 revolver

This best 44 magnum revolver manages to bust the long-lasting claim that’s taken over the realm of revolvers, which is that revolvers aren’t primarily targeted at concealed carry. Before I tried it, I’ve experimented with S&W’s both K and N frames. N-frame revolvers were bulky, while K-frame ones gave potential to a CCW piece.

Specifications of the Smith & Wesson Model 69

Grip

Synthetic

Front Sight

Red Ramp

Rear Sight

Adjustable Black Blade

Action

Single or Double Action

Barrel Length

2.75 inches

Capacity

5 Cartridges

Material

Stainless Steel

The American firearms manufacturer had plans to bridge the gap between those two frames, and the Model 69 Combat Magnum was brought to light as a compact revolver that packs the destructive 44 Mag firepower. The innovation lies in the fact that the Model 69 is the first revolver to adopt a form factor based on the L frame.

S&W succeeded in cramming the power you’ll mostly find in the heavy N-frame revolvers into a holster-friendly L-frame package. That’s the mindset that pushes gun owners toward possessing a little demon like the Model 69 with its 2.75-inch barrel. But is this short barrel a good call at the range?

I like that S&W reinforced the Model 69 with a full-length underlug since it’ll eventually reduce the kickback of the muzzle climb. When you lay hands on the Combat Magnum, you’ll notice that the short barrel is an indicator of how this 44 Mag revolver targets concealed-carry shooters as it weighs around 34.4 ounces. It still remains one of the strongest 44 magnum revolver options to date.

As you might have guessed, the light weight might affect recoil. In the end, you want to shoot fast and flat. However, I’ve always thought of recoil control as a subjective matter that hails down on a heated discussion at a bar among marksmen. Yes, this 44 Mag revolver is so lightweight that it requires some practice to get used to. 

For instance, shooting S&W’s X-frame .500 Mag revolver hasn’t been a pleasant experience, and I’m not planning on doing it again. But at least, it made me appreciate my recoil retention with the Combat Magnum and the CCW-compliant barrel, which disassembles to 2 pieces: a threaded barrel and a shroud for precision.

One thing I noticed is that the cylinder has the same bulk as N-frame 44 Mag revolvers, proving that the Model 69 boasts a beefed-up version of the feather-light K-frame revolvers. Slide that release button to snap the cylinder open, and it’ll swing out with 5 chambers for ammo insertion.

I wouldn’t count the cylinder capacity of 5 cartridges as a downside since the cylinder has sizable spaces between each chamber to boost the rigidness of the stainless steel. This 5-shooter is chambered in either 44 Mag or 44 Special. Relatively speaking, that’s good news for some beginner-to-intermediate users.

If you fill the chambers with 44 Special, chances are you’ll experience less recoil than shooting a 44 Mag cartridge since the casings of 44 SPL ammunition exert less pressure and, in turn, less recoil. Still, I’d prefer acquainting myself with shooting 44 Mag for potential recoil tolerance.

The extended grip is made up of synthetic rubber, and I’ve had no frustrating moments with the textured surface. S&W also gives you an option to change this grip by loosening the middle screw to swap it with another one.

The Model 69 is a double-action .44 Mag revolver, but what truly captivated me was its hammer, enticing me to cock it repeatedly to experience the single-action mechanism of this firearm. The hammer boasts a robust texture, allowing for easy cocking, while the seamless trigger pull has transformed me into a fervent admirer of the Model 69's one-handed functionality. As my chosen carry gun, I opt for .44 SPL ammo, which offers minimal recoil. I particularly adore the grip and trigger pull, which enhance my shooting experience. Is this 44 mag revolver best overall? In my experience, YES!

Pros

  • Pocket-sized form factor
  • Double or single action
  • Heavy-duty cylinder and hammer

Cons

  • Recoil may not be tolerable for beginners

2. [Best Budget 44 Mag Revolver] Ruger Super Blackhawk

4.8/5

Features: 

  • Comfortable wooden grip for excellent handgun control.
  • Medium weight for beginners to get used to recoil anticipation.
  • Easy-to-cock hammer with a flat surface for a one-handed grip.
  • Long barrel that increases aiming accuracy.
  • Chambered in .44 Remington Magnum or .44 S&W Special
  • Adjustable rear sight allows adding length to elevation.

Ruger Super Blackhawk revolver

With the Ruger Super Blackhawk, you actually get two advantages, the first being that you’ll carry a prodigious wheel gun that’ll sooner or later remind you of that classic Colt Python from the 50s. The second is that it doesn’t bear a .537 Mag caliber, but a mighty 44 Mag one with a budget-friendly price tag.

Specifications of the Ruger Super Blackhawk

Grip

Hardwood

Front Sight

Ramp

Rear Sight

Adjustable

Action

Single-Action

Barrel Length

5.50 inches

Capacity

6 Cartridges

Material

Alloy Steel

I’ve owned another variant of the Super Blackhawk, which has an unfluted cylinder. Unfluted cylinders have a connected design that looks uniform. Alternatively, this new Super Blackhawk boasts a fluted cylinder with some metal removed for carving cut-outs (flutes) among the chambers to reduce the weight.

This 5.5-inch barrel has given me the implication of weighty handling, and that’s true. However, the weight is fantastically distributed among the unfluted cylinder, barrel, and the vintage grip. This 44 Mag handgun has an 11.38-inch overall length of alloy steel this time, reflecting the price segment where the Super Blackhawk lies.

Unlike the S&W Model 69 Combat Magnum, the Super Blackhawk’s cylinder doesn’t magically swing out for speed-loading. It follows the old-school fixed cylinder mechanism for reloading instead of the modern-day cylinders that either break outward or swing sideways.

While it may sound archaic, this fixed cylinder has a nearby gate, which you can open when you half-cock the hammer lever. Only then will you be able to load every 44 Mag bullet at a time in the 6 chambers by spinning the cylinder. Note that this revolver is also chambered in 44 Special ammunition.

I won’t let you think of the added weight as a curse, though. Weighing 45 ounces, the Super Blackhawk won’t be cruel to you if you decide to shoot it one-handedly. The lightweight Model 69 will hit you with a more aggressive kickback than this Super Blackhawk. The more weighty the handgun, the better the recoil absorption.

The Super Blackhawk is a single-action 44 Mag revolver, meaning you’ll have to cock the hammer manually to activate the trigger’s functionality to move the firing pin for the next shot. I’d like to take a moment to tip my hat before this vintage-looking hammer—it looks like a seat, and you can cock it back with minimal pressure.

I even tried to fan that hammer like newbies, and it didn’t let me down! It’s better than the curved hammers we see nowadays in single-action revolvers, and it’s not the only good ol’ thing in this affordable 44 Mag revolver. This genuine hardwood grip never fails to seduce me to carry this gun to destroy some watermelons at the range. This is why I consider Ruger Super Blackhawk the best 44 revolver for beginners and for a tight budget!

Since the cylinder doesn’t pop out to the side, how will you be able to get rid of the spent cartridges? Below the barrel, you’ll spot the old-timey charm of the fixed, full-length ejector rod. So, you’ll have to spin the cylinder to bring the chamber and slide that rod all the way back till you laboriously dump these casings.

Though I'm addicted to these slides, I should mention it occasionally gets stuck, requiring manual cartridge removal after extensive use. Nevertheless, it's a reliable and cost-efficient .44 Mag revolver with adjustable sights that will take care of your targets. Ruger's single actions are truly beautiful and well-crafted.

I've cherished this gun since my youth and have never experienced a failure. Its smooth action and remarkable accuracy make it my go-to, even amidst my love for striker fire pistols. Ruger's single actions are simply awesome, as exemplified by my first purchase of a Vaquero in .44-40.

I still recall my first handgun, a Ruger Blackhawk .41 Magnum, which I obtained at 16 through summer work with my dad. These weapons are excellent, and I've customized mine with a wicked trigger job and Pachmayr grips, resulting in an amazing shooter!

Pros

  • Great for beginners
  • Sturdy build quality
  • Fluted and wide cylinder

Cons

  • The ejector rod is prone to malfunctioning after long sessions

3. [Best Double-Action 44 Mag Revolver] Ruger Super Redhawk

4.7/5

Features: 

  • The triple-locking cylinder complements the stability while shooting.
  • The grip is cushioned for comfort and recoil control.
  • A one-piece barrel that’s hammer-forged for both durability and accuracy.
  • The 13-inch overall length allows for scope mounting.
  • The rear sight is adjustable in terms of elevation and windage.

Ruger Super Redhawk revolver

Although Ruger jumped on the 44 Mag revolver bandwagon too late in 1949, the founders of this firearms manufacturer sensed Smith & Wesson’s interest in the potential of double-action hand cannons. Both manufacturers have their headquarters situated in Connecticut, where the double-action dream came to life.

Specifications of the Ruger Super Redhawk

Grip

Hogue Tamer Monogrip

Front Sight

Ramp

Rear Sight

Adjustable

Action

Single or Double Action

Barrel Length

7.5 inches

Capacity

6 Cartridges

Material

Stainless Steel

In 1979, Ruger announced its first double-action 6-shooter, the Redhawk, which also came later than its competitors. Better late than never! This handgun has appeased to the palms of seasoned marksmen, and the Super Redhawk still carries the legacy of the original Redhawk to this day.

Since I’ve been an avid bearer of the single-action Super Blackhawk, I felt the urge to give the double-action Ruger Redhawk a shot to see how it fares with a bursting cartridge like the 44 Mag. It’s worth mentioning that this handgun has two variants, one of which is chambered in .454 Casull, giving an initial implication of endurance.

“That’s some merciful recoil we have here!”—a phrase you’ll rarely hear during a 44 Mag revolver chit-chat. While the availability of a .454 Casull variant gave me a positive impression about the build quality, it was also a bit intimidating for me. What I expected was an unforgiving recoil by all means, but the reality was different.

First off, the Ruger Redhawk 44 Magnum’s 7.5-inch barrel kind of soothed my worries. This is a good rule of thumb to follow: the longer the barrel, the more forgiving the recoil unless you’re dealing with an unappeasable .50 AE or .500 S&W revolver. Thinking about these makes me feel grateful for sticking to this revolver.

Additionally, I’m thankful that Ruger dedicates 3 parts of this 44 Mag revolver to make recoil less painful: the barrel, the grip, and the cylinder. Weighing 53 ounces, the Super Blackhawk even more than its single-action cousin, the Blackhawk. So, the weight also cleared out the odds of suffering from a blistering kickback.

This long barrel doesn’t have an underlug for support, making it more reliable and heavy-duty than that of the Smith and Wesson 44 Mag Model 69, although we don't have a full-length ejector rod (it has no advantage other than looking cool, anyway).

We get the standard dot-textured grip with grooves that act as finger rests. You can change it with a custom one, but I recommend that you don’t! Ruger calls this the Hogue Tamer grip, and it houses a recoil cushion that troubleshoots aggressive kickbacks, no matter how heavy the loads get.

The third key to recoil reduction here is the stainless steel cylinder, which swings out when you slide the release button. Ruger employs a triple-locking mechanism to fasten this cylinder to the front, rear, and bottom of the revolver’s frame to ensure that it doesn’t wiggle. This Ruger-exclusive solution deserves a round of applause!

Now that recoil is no longer a problem, let's discuss how the handgun performs at the range. Thanks to its innovative 3-way solution, the recoil of this handgun is directed slightly backward instead of pushing the muzzle upward, which is especially beneficial for beginners.

Additionally, the double-action trigger has a smooth and straightforward pull, requiring less pressure. One notable feature of this double-action 44 Mag revolver is its delicate hammer, allowing easy cocking for single-action mode.

However, it's important to note that fanning is not possible due to the fixed sights positioned at a higher level than the hammer's lever. Several users have praised the SRH 44 magnum with the same grips and a 9.5" barrel, describing it as an incredibly fun, strong, and accurate revolver.

Its durability and reliability have also been highlighted, with users expressing their love for this gun. The Ruger Redhawk is widely regarded as a fantastic wheel gun for its price, and some users even prefer its trigger over their beloved S&W 19 for double-action shooting.

Pros

  • Impressive recoil reduction
  • Can be used in both double and single actions
  • Detachable front sight (red ramp)

Cons

  • The trigger pull is so soft in single action

Features: 

  • Mid-size barrel with an underlug for the ejection rod.
  • Supports the insertion of S&W .44 Special or Remington .44 Magnum.
  • The cylinder goes along with any speedloader.
  • The adjustable rear sight helps personalize an elevation that you can handle.
  • Has a wide array of accessories due to its fame.

Smith & Wesson Model 29 revolver

“This is the 44 Magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world, and would blow your head clean off.” These were the lines uttered by Clint Eastwood in Dirty Harry while threatening his enemy, referring to the all-time classic Smith & Wesson Model 29. Did he fire that 6th shot, though? Yes, he did—no setbacks whatsoever!

Specifications of the Smith & Wesson Model 29

Grip

Checkered Square Butt Walnut, Wooden

Front Sight

Red Ramp

Rear Sight

Micro-Adjustable

Action

Single or Double Action

Barrel Length

4 inches

Capacity

6 Cartridges

Material

Carbon Steel

This movie is the reason why the Model 29’s sun will never set as long as traditional firearms remain in circulation. On the advent of the .454 Casull followed by the .460 and the .500 S&W Magnum calibers, many shooters expected that the Model 29’s legacy would be irrevocably wiped off since it uses 44 Mag ammunition.

On the contrary, the hype behind the S&W Model 29 is still skyrocketing to this day, and I bet you’re here to know why. While we may not find anything new with this 44 Mag revolver, I’d say that the Model 29 has provided the standard that other firearms manufacturers regard as the mainstay of 44 Mag revolvers.

One thing that caught my eyes is the carbon steel build, which is exceptionally stronger as it ensures that this handgun will last a lifetime, to say the least. Carbon steel has more carbon incorporated into it, granting the Model 29 higher durability and better heat dissipation.

Heat distribution is our top-priority spec to deal with the hot ballistics of a tenacious 44 Mag revolver like the Model 29. Luckily, the frame isn’t the only component made of carbon steel since both the cylinder and the barrel derive their support from this carbon-infused polymer.

The Model 29 we see in Dirty Harry had a 6.5-inch barrel. However, this reissue of the classic 44 Mag revolver adopts a 4-inch barrel with a handy underlug to accommodate the full-length ejection rod. The Model 29 weighs 43.08 ounces, considerably more than our 34.4-ounce S&W Model 69.

The increase in both weight and barrel length hints at improved recoil retention compared to the advanced-level kickback we’re familiar with in the Model 69. Still, an iconic wheelgun like this requires additional practice sessions to get used to. For the untrained eye, I’d recommend loading this handgun with .44 Special ammo at first.

For mainly a double-action sidearm, the Model 29 has its hammer unhindered by the rear sight. It’s funny that most manufacturers cut off some metal from the lever to prevent gun owners from fanning the hammer. But, Smith & Wesson doesn’t do monstrosities—it wants to keep its classics in their prime.

The 6-chamber cylinder easily swings out to the side when you poke that release button. Fortunately, this vintage cylinder is compatible with most speedloaders on the market. So, you can save yourself the trouble of loading every 44 Mag cartridge individually.

What encouraged me to take this Model 29 reissue to the shooting range was the Dirty Harry-esque wooden grip, which features a square-shaped bottom reminiscent of the captivating 44 revolvers from the past century. I would dare to say that this hand cannon is well-suited for intermediate shooters who may not prefer the Model 69.

I often carry revolvers, not necessarily every day, but frequently. I feel equally capable, comfortable, and confident with either choice. Smith and Wesson's 44 magnum always brings a smile to my face! It's a fantastic way to spend a day in the great outdoors, immersing myself in nature and sending rounds downrange. I reload my own ammunition, so when I bring it out, I usually have around 250 rounds of hot reloads ready to go.

I genuinely adore this firearm. Some individuals may not appreciate the lock or the grips, but personally, I have never encountered any issues with either. I grew up shooting this stainless classic, and I still have it. It holds countless beautiful memories for me.

Pros

  • Optimum recoil for intermediate shooters
  • Easy-to-pull hammer
  • Crafted from rigid carbon steel
  • Vintage-looking, comfortable grip

Cons

  • Expensive

Features: 

  • The underlug-equipped long barrel reduces muzzle flips.
  • Two cut-outs on the ribbed barrel for scope mounting.
  • The weight is evened out between the frame and the grip.
  • Adjustable stock iron sights with perfect alignment between the rear and the front.
  • A safe loading mechanism that doesn’t require half-cocking.

Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter revolver

The first Blackhawk I used had a .357 Magnum caliber, but the Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter packs a vindictive 44 Mag one. If you’re still reading, you must’ve drawn the distinction between Ruger’s Blackhawks and Redhawks. Yes, Blackhawks are single-action revolvers, while the Redhawks utilize double-action triggers.

Specifications of the Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter

Grip

Black Laminate

Front Sight

Red Ramp

Rear Sight

Adjustable

Action

Single Action

Barrel Length

7.5 inches

Capacity

6 Cartridges

Material

Stainless Steel

Ruger has been taking care of its Blackhawk Hunter lineup since it first hit the market in the 50s, and that’s because of the ever-increasing demand of handgun hunters who want a high-caliber revolver for some big-trophy games. I personally use mine for self-defense amid a venture into the woods.

If there’s one thing that sets the Blackhawk Hunter from the regular Blackhawk, it’d be the reloading mechanism. In the Blackhawk Hunter, you only need to open the loading gate and spin the cylinder to insert your Remington cartridges of choice. Half-cocking the hammer won’t do any magic, and I recommend you don’t do that.

If you attempt to half-cock the lever, you may end up initiating the trigger to move the firing pin, and you wouldn’t want to do that since you may fire the Blackhawk Hunter accidentally. The revolver has a safety measure in this mechanism by preventing any hammer cocking until the loading gate is slammed back in place.

Like the Super Blackhawk, this 44 Mag revolver has a 7.5-inch barrel, but with an underlug this time. Although I would’ve preferred a one-piece barrel, I appreciate that the one we have here adds to the overall weight of 52 ounces. So long as more weight means less recoil, I’m definitely in—that’s a sane decision.

One look at the back, and you’ll see the classic-looking hammer. I’ve had no tragic moments with it since it’s easy to reach even if you don’t have a high grip on the gun. I just don’t like that the rear sight is slightly elevated, and it eclipses the prominence of the hammer. Your thumb may land on the sight until you get used to it.

Unlike the Blackhawk, this 44 Mag has its cylinder made of one chunk of stainless steel. You’ll see no flutes when you spin it to reload. This unfluted cylinder’s guts welcome 6 .44 caliber cartridges from either Remington or Smith & Wesson. If you choose to fire it with .44 Special, you’ll observe a noticeable degradation in recoil.

While the cylinder stands unfluted, you’ll find 2 cutouts on top of the barrel for third-party optics. As its name implies, most gun owners would resort to this 44 Mag revolver for big-game hunting. I’d say human hunter-gatherers would use the Blackhawk Hunter if they had the luxury to assemble a revolver!

Aside from the sturdiness of stainless steel, the Ruger Blackhawk Hunter offers a unique black laminate grip that provides a comfortable and high posture while handling the firearm. Inside the grip, a coil spring ensures proper weight distribution, which is essential given the heavy 7.5-inch barrel. Unfortunately, like its brother, the Blackhawk, this revolver faces the same ejection rod adversity.

However, Ruger has addressed one common concern by molding the trigger guard into a rounded shape, eliminating knuckle pain. Despite this flaw, the Blackhawk Hunter remains an enjoyable firearm to shoot and a worthwhile investment for those seeking happiness through shooting.

It boasts remarkable accuracy when fired without any support and is particularly suitable for hunting, especially with its recommended 7.5" barrel length. Whether you have an older model or a newer one, the Super Blackhawk is widely regarded as a great gun with impressive accuracy and a solid build. The single-action mechanism adds to the enjoyment of shooting, forcing the shooter to slow down and savor the power this best 44 magnum revolver for hunting delivers.

Pros

  • Easy-to-pull trigger with a rounded guard
  • Scope-ready
  • Great recoil retention
  • Comfortable grip

Cons

  • Spinning unfluted cylinders may be annoying for some

4.5/5

Features: 

  • A well-functioning ejection rod that won’t get stuck in the middle.
  • An extended wooden grip inspired by the Single Action Army.
  • Blade-shaped front sights that line up with the adjustable rear sight.
  • The 8-inch octagonal barrel provides an incredible linear sight for accuracy.
  • A recessed trigger with a spacious guard to decrease LOP (length of pull).

Cimarron Bad Boy revolver

If you’re new to the realm of revolvers, you may not hear about Cimarron. This firearms manufacturer’s founder, Mike Harvey, is actually aiming at reviving the vibes of vintage firepower. That’s what I felt when I first laid hands on the Cimarron Bad Boy since it boasts nearly the same design as a 19-century Colt Single Action Army.

Specifications of the Cimarron Bad Boy

Grip

Wooden, Army-Style Grip

Front Sight

Blade

Rear Sight

Adjustable

Action

Single Action

Barrel Length

8 inches, octagonal

Capacity

6 Cartridges

Material

Carbon Steel, Blue Finish

There are many things that draw your attention when you look at this 44 Mag handgun. For me, it’s been the 8-inch barrel, the lengthiest on our list. After shooting some cartridges, I’ve noticed that this octagonal barrel is much stiffer than round barrels. Also, the flat barrel edges here somehow increased my accuracy.

Combine that with the lengthy sight radius, and you’ll realize how accurately you can fire this Bad Boy. The long barrel alone allows for rapid target acquisition if you’re a fan of quick draws. At first glance, you may argue that it’s a two-piece barrel. However, it’s only a one-piece tube with an underlug for the ejection rod.

Just behold how affordable this Bad Boy is. Despite that, Harvey doesn’t compromise on the build quality; it’s made out of an unrelenting chunk of blued carbon steel, similar to old-school 44 Mag revolvers like the Smith & Wesson Model 29. This further explains Cimarron’s intent to reinvigorate the veterans of the past.

I still remember the way my old man taught me to reload an army-style single-action revolver. For starters, you should half-cock the hammer, open the reload gate, and insert one of these offensive Remington cartridges. Back in the day, shooters used to skip one chamber so that the firing pin wouldn’t land on a live cartridge.

The Bad Boy doesn't require you to ignore the 6th chamber; you can enjoy the entirety of the 6-shot cylinder. The secret behind this is that the firing pin is integrated into the hammer. It retracts when you hold the lever back for a moment and then slowly pushes forward to place it in a steady position. Samuel Colt would be proud!

However, despite its weight of 48 ounces and the extra length of the barrel, recoil control is not as unchallenging as one might hope, especially for beginners. Nevertheless, this revolver is undeniably beautiful with its deep blue finish, and the octagonal barrel adds a unique and badass look to it.

The optics plate is a bonus, particularly if you can find a red dot sight to handle the heavy recoil of the 44-mag. Many users praise its accuracy and describe it as the perfect blend of Old West charm and modern power. Some have even found that using shooting gloves enhances their grip and prevents recoil from causing any discomfort. Overall, the Bad Boy is a true beauty in the world of revolvers.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Excellent out-of-the-box sights
  • Safe mechanism for hammer cocking
  • Heavy-duty carbon steel build

Cons

  • Tenacious muzzle flip with .44 Mag rounds

Features: 

  • Standard 6.5-inch barrel and a better sight radius for aiming precision.
  • Cushioned synthetic grip for recoil absorption.
  • Stainless steel build that stands the test of time.
  • Supports .44 Special rounds for less aggressive kickbacks.
  • Accurate trigger pulls in single action with a thumb-friendly hammer.

Smith & Wesson Model 629 revolver

The Smith & Wesson Model 629 is the savior for those who don’t want to get a taste of the attacking recoil of the Model 69 or 29. I’d deem this 44 Mag handgun a standard for the entry-level revolver bearers who have familiarized themselves with basic recoil control in semi-automatic pistols.

Specifications of the Smith & Wesson Model 629

Grip

Synthetic

Front Sight

Red Ramp

Rear Sight

Adjustable White Outline

Action

Single or Double Action

Barrel Length

6.5 inches

Capacity

6 Cartridges

Material

Stainless Steel

The spec sheet gave me the benefit of the doubt even before I took this guy to the shooting range. The standard 6.5-inch barrel is ribbed into 2 pieces. Although it’s circular, you’ll be able to retain an acceptable sight radius while aiming, thanks to the contrast achieved by both the red front sight and the white rear one.

Most double-action 44 Mag revolvers have a subtly curved lever. However, the hammer on the back resembles that of a single-action revolver since it has a rest for your thumb, rendering it convenient to shoot this handgun in the one-handed mode.

The swing-out cylinder houses six .44 caliber rounds in the Smith & Wesson 44 Magnum model. For novice shooters who wish to avoid excessive recoil, opting for .44 Special ammunition is a viable choice. Personally, I found the trigger's feel to be quite satisfying, especially when firing in single-action mode. 

When using the longer barrel, the revolver's performance excels at any distance, making it an exceptional choice. I personally adore my 4" model as it boasts outstanding craftsmanship and accuracy. Whether I'm camping or hunting, this firearm provides me with a sense of security every time.

The revolver's aesthetics are also worth mentioning, with its sleek design and impressive shooting capabilities. Some users have opted to customize their own, adding an old-style cylinder release and S&W wood stocks for a more appealing look. While rubber stocks are practical for frequent shooting, the wooden ones offer a touch of elegance. If you're fortunate enough to find the 5" version, like I did, you'll discover that it's aesthetically superior to the longer barreled variations.

Pros

  • Optimal for beginner revolver shooters
  • Fluted cylinder that’s easy to spin
  • Easy-to-control recoil

Cons

  • Not suitable for self-defense because of the large frame

Why Choose .44 Magnum?

Many shooters have questioned the tendency of marksmen to hold .44 Mag revolvers. I mean they have bursting recoil and a restricting capacity of 6 rounds—what’s so attractive about them? These revolvers caught the eyes of shooters because they’re something to DESIRE, not something to DEMAND.

Firing a 44 Mag firearm is synonymous with taking your marksmanship to the next level. Think of it as a challenge: you’re ambitious enough to pull the trigger of one of the strongest firearms in the world with the determination to succeed in predicting the recoil pattern and nailing every one of these 6 hollow-point cartridges.

What tempted me to get into 44 Mag firearms is the vicious idea of possessing unrelenting firepower in a pocket-sized package instead of a rifle, for instance. As of now, this caliber sits on top of the cartridge hierarchy alongside the .50 American Express used in the stony-hearted Desert Eagle.

Putting that into perspective, the .44 Remington Magnum has made a breakthrough in handgun ballistics since the cartridge can achieve a low-end velocity of 1180 ft/s, compared to the 835 ft/s velocity of the .45 ACP.

I can hear you saying that both the .454 Casull and the .500 S&W Magnum make 44 Magnum ballistics sound futile. Still, I’m happy that we have a vigorous choice that sits halfway between these two cartridges, and that’s where the .44 Mag shines.

Personal Experience With Both .44s – Special and Magnum

It took me a while to differentiate between the .44 Magnum and the .44 Special. Except for the increased length of the former, both cartridges bear the same dimensions. You can even load a .44 Mag revolver with .44 Special ammo. So, what’s the difference that should attract you to opt for either?

Although the .44 Special is the predecessor of the .44 Magnum, many arms manufacturers still release revolvers with .44 SPL-compliant cylinders. I deem this good news for beginners who want to get straight into Magnum revolvers since the Smith & Wesson .44 SPL handguns boast controllable recoil.

Seeing that the .44 Special is older, it’s far more cost-efficient than our Remington cartridge. Yet, it’s not widely in stock as the .44 Magnum, rendering .44 SPL revolvers useless. Alternatively, the .44 Special is what the bearers of .44 Mag revolver resort to when on a budget.

However, I started with a .44 Mag revolver right off the bat and made an effort to acquaint myself with the unmanageable recoil, which has become something intuitive later on.

One thing that I have to admit is that the .44 Mag produces unbearable muzzle flash when you fire the cartridge, overwhelming your eyes even in broad daylight. So, visiting the shooting range at night is where the .44 Special decisively excels.

Single Action vs. Double Action

Suppose that a despicable home invader managed to break into your property, and you’re finally ready to call dibs on their life. You do your quick draw and heroically pull the trigger, but nothing happens!

Probably, you were holding a single-action revolver in this unfortunate situation. Do you see that lever that resembles the beavertail on Glock pistols? Yes, that’s called the hammer. In single-action revolvers, you have to manually cock the hammer by sliding it backward since the trigger only does one task: release the hammer.

The firing pin will only deliver a cartridge to the barrel on releasing a cocked hammer. So, single-action handguns are great for hunting or cowboy shooting competitions, but not definitely for self-defense. Some marksmen repeatedly fire single-action revolvers by “fanning” the hammer, meaning they rapidly pull it for consecutive shots.

However, that turns out to be impractical if you’re caught up in a real firefight since your shots will be terribly inaccurate; you may end up harming yourself. That’s where double-action revolvers come into play. The trigger of these revolvers undertakes two tasks: cocking the hammer and feeding the barrel with cartridges.

Note that you can’t fan the hammer of a double-action revolver and won’t even feel the urge to do so unless you’re a show-off who tried it out like me.

Revolver Parts

  • Action - The parts required to ignite a cartridge are contained in an action, also known as a trigger group. It is made out of a single piece that houses the trigger, hammer, and safeties. Additionally, mechanics are created and used in accordance with the action of the weapon. The type of action, whether single-action or double-action, is determined by the trigger's function.
  • Frame - The handgun's handle or grip is a metal casing called the frame. All other elements are integrated into or connected to the frame.
  • Barrel - The bullet passes via a barrel, which is a metal tube. This explains why the barrel of a handgun is smaller than that of a rifle or shotgun. It wasn't intended to be shot against the shooter's shoulder, but rather with one or two hands. The accuracy, range, and velocity of the bullet as it leaves the chamber are significantly influenced by the barrel.
  • Cylinder - Revolvers and other repeating handguns may store multiple rounds of ammunition. In a revolver, the cylinder is where the ammunition is kept.

.44 Magnum Revolver Qualities to Look For


The intended use of the weapon should always be the first factor considered when choosing a gun. A 4-inch or even 3-inch barrel is preferred for general use or as a backup gun in bear area due to the decreased bulk and weight. A 6-inch or longer variant will be worth the extra weight for hunting due to the increased velocity.

Grips

Some people find the grips of large-frame revolvers to be excessively enormous, so you might want to think about choosing a weapon with aftermarket grips that are readily available. Consider purchasing a model that comes equipped with Bisley-style grips from the factory as most big-bore handgun shooters concur that these are the best for handling this kind of recoil.

Sights

While Patridge-style sights are present on nearly all .44 Magnum revolvers and are quite functional, a scope or red dot will be preferable on a hunting handgun. Look for a rifle that is tapped or has a top strap/barrel shroud rail if that is important to you.

Ammunition

Due to the high cost of this cartridge, you should also think about what and how you'll be feeding it. Reloading is a smart way to cut costs and gives you the flexibility to create loads that are exactly what you want. 

Safety Considerations

Things may go south at the shooting range if you’re still new to 44 Mag revolvers. That’s why I want to address some safety precautions that you MUST follow before or while firing your handgun. Start by paying attention to your surroundings. Never pull the trigger on something unless you know what’s lying behind it.

You’d also want to treat your unloaded gun as if it’s loaded—there may be a cartridge in one of the chambers that you left on a whim. So, never point your gun at a vulnerable direction on the off chance that the trigger is accidentally pulled. When reloading, open the cylinder using the nearby release button/latch.

In case you wish to unload unspent cartridges from the cylinder, open it and flip the gun with your hands open to grab the cartridges. However, if you want to get rid of spent cartridges, point the muzzle down for safety, open the cylinder and press the ejector rod and let them fall since they’ll be unbearably hot.

You should NEVER align your thumb to the gap between the barrel and the cylinder or place your thumb on the cylinder when you fire. Also, if you’re using a single-action revolver, bear in mind that the trigger pull is so minimal when you cock the hammer. So, don’t expect to feel the trigger pull since it’s so soft.

Reliability

44 Mags are reliable most of the time when they are well-maintained and cleaned revolvers. Actually, the common consensus is that revolvers don’t jam when delivering cartridges, unlike what we might experience with semi-automatic pistols that require you to rack the slide in case of a cartridge jam.

When a problem arises with revolvers, it most likely has to do with low-quality ammunition, which often leads to the formation of fouling inside the barrel. Fouling refers to the stuck remnants of copper or lead that result from a spent cartridge, and it has to be cleaned regularly; otherwise, the bullet trajectory may get altered.

Like with any other gun, 44 Mag revolvers are bound to malfunction if there are construction defects. For instance, my first revolver’s ejector ran loose and caused the cylinder to be locked shut until I shipped it back for maintenance.

The key to reliability here is that revolvers are mechanically less complex than semi-autos. Almost no revolver chokes up on certain types of ammo, so much so that marksmen won’t test their revolvers with a plethora of rounds.

On the other hand, you have to test semi-autos because of their ammunition sensitivity, which costs you many rounds for testing whether the barrel has adapted to the new ammo or not.

Ergonomics

It’s easily noticeable that 44 Mag revolvers have got some excessive bulk, but that’s the norm with revolvers in general. I’d say that the most enticing thing about a revolver’s ergonomics is the grip. No matter your hand size, you’ll be able to achieve a tight grip to control the muzzle flip.

Unlike semi-automatic pistols, 44 Mag revolvers have more of a downward-extending stock that helps with getting a higher grip on the handgun, ensuring full coverage of the revolver with your dominant hand’s middle, ring, and pinky fingers.

The next thing you’d want to do is wrap your weak hand’s fingers around your dominant hand except for the thumb that you’ll tuck on top of the other hand’s thumb to form an X shape for better recoil tolerance. You’re now ready to call the shots!

Accuracy

There’s a saying I’ve always believed in based on my experience with .44 Mag revolvers: a handgun’s accuracy depends on who’s holding it. Generally, the difference in the intrinsic accuracy of every revolver is indistinguishable—what really matters is how you treat these hand cannons.

If you succeed in getting a marksman-grade grip (like mentioned above) and understanding the sense of recoil and muzzle climbs, you’ll be able to improve your shooting capabilities with a 44 Mag revolver, which produces a stronger kickback than your average semi-automatic pistols.

FAQs

What is the best 44 magnum revolver?

The best 44 magnum revolver is the Smith & Wesson Model 69. It is pocket-sized, reduces the kickback of the muzzle climb and can be double or single action. Because of the powerful texture of the hammer and the smooth trigger pull, the one-handed usability of the Model 69 has won my undying admiration.

What are the best .44 magnum revolvers that are double action?

The best .44 magnum revolvers that are double action are:

  • Smith & Wesson Model 69
  • Ruger Super Redhawk
  • Smith & Wesson Model 29
  • Smith & Wesson Model 629

Conclusion

Wheelgun, hand cannon, man-stopper, a portable tank—these are all synonyms for your best 44 Mag revolver. The “gun that won the west” was a revolver, the Colt Single Action Army. These relentless firearms are an authority without question. They obliterate the enemy and take no prisoners!