.44 Magnum Revolvers

The .44 magnum cartridge shows the ingenuity of the American shooter. Dedicated revolver aficionados came together with major firearms manufacturers to design a round and a gun that would be the most powerful production caliber ever seen. The .44 magnum is based on the .44 special, but the case was lengthened to allow more powder capacity because more powder means more power.

Revolvers in .44 magnum caliber are built on heavy steel frames that are capable of containing the immense pressure of the 44 magnum. The .44 magnum came along at a perfect time in terms of metallurgy. Improved modern alloys allowed the production of stronger cylinders and top straps, a necessity when dealing with the tremendous power of the .44 magnum.

The first commercially produced .44 magnum was the Smith & Wesson Model 29, made famous by "Dirty Harry" films. Since its introduction, a .44 magnum revolver has been produced by every modern revolver manufacturer. This includes models from Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Colt, Taurus, and more. These revolvers are an excellent choice for heavy-duty competition and hunting medium and large game.

Quick Facts

• The .44 magnum is a grandchild of the .44 Russian, and like the .44 Russian, it uses a .43-caliber projectile
• The .44 magnum is capable of taking game up to large elks
• Although "Dirty Harry" made the .44 magnum a household name, .44-magnum revolvers are considered much too powerful for police work