I have this model of revolver and really like it. Took a little getting used to and found I had to modify the factory setting of the adjustable rear sight. Seemed to be shooting low and to the left. Adjusted it a little to center it laterally, but had to adjust a good pit to raise the elevation of POI.
Was suspecting that some of this was me and not necessarily all the revolver. Now that I've shot it some, and more accustomed to it, I've found that I had to re-adjust the elevation a little back to its original setting, but is still has a fair amount of elevation adjustment from factory setting.
Ron is right...the open backstrap can result in a pretty sore thumb pad in your palm after shooting 25 or more rounds. I wish the Redhawk had the same grip profile of the Hogue setup on the Super Redhawk.
I recently bought a pair of shooting gloves and used them for the first time last Sunday...made a world of difference. Shot through a box of 50, 44 magnum rounds, and left the range with no noticeable discomfort to the hand.
The Gloves I bought :
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?p ... tegory0609
Besides that, if you do a lot of target shooting with these large magnum guns it is not really good for small bones and joint in the wrist. Good to wear the shooting glove when at the range.
I wouldn't consider the 4" barrel a hunting revolver, per se...to me, the hunting revolver barrel length begins at 5-1/2". That being said, it could be a fine backup sidearm for a hunter. But, for the backcountry defensive carry I purchased the Redhawk 4" for, I believe it has been an excellent choice.
Regards,
MD