Redhawk 5.5" barrel 45LC questions....

[Nakanokalronin]

I saw a used Ruger Redhawk at my local FFL for a price I couldn't refuse. I've wanted a double action 45LC revolver for some time and was waiting for a used one to show up, and yesterday it did. Having the overbuilt goodness of a Ruger will allow me to shoot any 45LC round out there and I'm wondering what the opinion is on it? I've read some of the older models had chambers that where too tight, but wondering about current models. I don't have it in my hands yet but the serial number on the slip is 503-24XXX and according to Ruger's site it was made between 1998-1999.

Having owned 2 GP100s,Old Vaquero and an SP101 I have no doubt of its ruggedness but was wondering about issues, if any with this model.

I just got back from the range where I purchased the Redhawk and shot my Uberti Schofield and 1873 and it seems the Redhawk is a 5.5" barrel made between 1998-1999 so its not the newer models but it has a very smooth trigger pull on it. I had them put various rounds in the chambers and they go in and out with ease so no problems there.

I had them check their various HKS speed loaders but nothing would work for the Redhawk in 45LC. Anyone know who makes a speedloader for it and what model? I've always been hesitant about moon clips unless the cylinder is cut for it since even if their very thin, they push the rounds away from the cylinder face just a tad bit and might bind when firing. If someone has a good source for moon clips that will work with a 45LC Rehawk, please post a link.

The 230gr on Starline brass goes about 900fps and is safe even in the Schofield as is the PDX-1. I'll have to see what Ruger only type loads I will buy since I currently don't own any and any suggestions would be appreciated since I can now use full power loads. BTW, I don't reload so hot loaded factory ammo suggestions only please.

 

[VAdoublegunner]

As far as speed loaders, I have been using the HKS ones for a S&W 25-5 with mine. I'm not sure if they are perfectly matched, but they work well enough. I guess it depends on exactly how fast you really need to reload.

 

[Nakanokalronin]

As far as speed loaders, I have been using the HKS ones for a S&W 25-5 with mine. I'm not sure if they are perfectly matched, but they work well enough. I guess it depends on exactly how fast you really need to reload.

I'll give the 25-5 loaders a try. Not looking for max speed, just convenience of carrying and reloading.

 

[andyo5]

The HKS 25-5 speedloader works on my 4" Redhawk as well as on my S&W model 625-6 Mountain Gun. It will work for you, too.
The chamber throats on my Redhawk were tight enough that a 0.452" bullet would not pass through. I have a Manson chamber throat reamer and I used it on the Redhawk as well as on my S&W .45 cailber revolvers. I even used it on my Uberti Cattleman, although the Uberti was almost the right size and so very little metal was removed.

 

[Snyd]

Congrats on the Redhawk. Those 5.5's are kinda hard to find. Ya, slug the bore and check your throats if you like to shoot cast. My 4" has a .451 bore and throats were at .452 as near as I could measure. Reamed them to .4525, tightened groups and took care of leading.