Single Action .44 vs. Double Action .44

[cherokee75]

I am considering purchasing a .44 for hunting deer in IL.  I was just looking for opinions, pros and cons, between single action and double action revolvers.  I am considering a Super Blakchawk in 5.5" or possibly a Super Redhawk.  Also, would the single action be a viable option for a backup pistol if ever I were to take a hunting trip in bear country (probably just wishful thinking)?

[jpsmith1]

I rhink that the difference between SA and DA is largely one of preference.  DA guns have the advantage of a faster second shot, but it's a pretty slim advantage and a basically un-aimed shot.  I can hammer a target pretty quickly with a SA reveolver.  Shoot both and pick your favorite.

[jason280]

Yeah, I agree with JP.  Both guns, especially comparing a Redhawk w/ a Blackhawk, are very similar in size.  However, their feels are  a little different and can be the determining factor.  Personally, I prefer the feel of a single action to that of a double, but this is purely subjective.  Now, a Super Redhawk feels a lot larger than a comparable Super Blackhawk, so I recommend actually going to a shop and comparing the two side by side.  A 7.5" SRH is a large handgun, but they shoot like a dream and will handle just about anything you can fit in the cylinder. 

[S.B.]

Hello cherokee75, I'll have to agree with the above posters, what ever fits your hand and needs in the deer woods and is allowed by Gov. Blo.'s dream team is the one to get.The action type really doesn't matter much, they (single or double action) will both serve you well.  Have fun with what ever you choose. By the way, I'm from Livingston Co., what part of the state are you from?

[Bullseye]

Personal preference rules here.  I have owned plenty of both and currently only own DA's.  They just fit my hand better and I shoot with them better.  I also prefer loading and unloading a DA better.

Hopefully you know some people that own some of each so that you can try them out and make up your mind.  I bought some of each and shot them for an extended period of time before making up my mind, luckily I bought them all priced right and got my money back out of them.

[Darrell Davis]

Yep, it does depend on --------------------???

I have also owned both of the action types - more of the single actions - but presently own a Redhawk which I really like!!

It is one tough gun!!

When I switched over to the 300+ brain cast bullets, I did have some problem with the cylinder pin on the BH.  It tended to move and damage itself with the heavy recoil.

A person could buy an after market pin which should cure that problem, however, the RH just takes a lick'in and keeps on ticken with a steady of diet of 310gr. LBT bullets ahead of 19gr of AA#9. 

This load gets me in excess of 1200fps out of my 5 1/2" barrel.

I like the single action, but after owning this double action Red Hawk, it would clearly be my choice for any future selections.

One thing I would do, no matter the style I bought, it would be a barrel no longer then 5 1/2" unless I planned to scope it and carry in a shoulder rig.

I use a left side - butt forward holster for my RH, and even though this is a big/heavy pistol, it is for the most part out of the way until needed.

Keep em coming!

[AuProspector]

Double action.

It has everything that a single action has plus plenty of extras.

ie, not having to replace your grip after each shoot, speed of reloading, double vs single action, etc.


I would not recommend a 300 grain bullet for the thin skin game, deer and bear.  Within handgun range, a 240 JHP bullet will anchor a 3 to 500 lb bear or it will give you the opportunity to get another shot in.  A hardcast 300 grain bullet would be like using a bow and arrow, with the arrow having a field tip on it.  It'll shoot though a target w/o causing much internal damage.... the game will likely die, but not a quick.

[4MUL8R]

I did not like the SA grip and the way it recoiled.  I doubtless did not hold the SA correctly, but years of DA shooting will leave you with a tight grip and a desire to withstand recoil rather than let the revolver roll upward.  So, I sold the SA.

I am looking at older Redhawks now.  Haven't found the one I want exactly.  Maybe you can find one you like and enjoy the hunting.

[Redhawk1]

There is only 3 real differences.

1. the action
2. recoil.
3. the way you load it.

The single action rolls in your hand and the double action is more of a push recoil.
I have hunted with both and have made just as fast of a follow up shots with my single action BFR as I do with my double action.

I suggest you try both and see which one you feel more comfortable with.

[Old Griz]

I started out with a Colt Anaconda, and I reallly liike it. However, I stumbled across a Bisley one day, and never looked back. I am glad it was a Bisley, because the long three fingered grip was a great transition for someone who was coming from DA revolvers. I still don't like the short Navy grip on most SA guns. If you get a chance, go to your favorite sporting goods or gun shop and handle a Bisley before you make up your mind.

Hey Redhawk you left out difference #4 - - Cleaning. Man it is soooooooooooooooo much easier to take down and clean a SA gun!

[Laremm]

Take a lesson from the SA guys even if you get a double action.

The second shot is going to be poor if you double action it. So if you have both hands on the revolver, reach up with the left thumb to single action it without loseing too much site picture. The pull the trigger on a SA light pull on target (a very scared running one)

Many SA guys can do this faster than double action.

[Heavy C]

I own both DA and SA revolvers and enjoy both of them very much.  Schooting the SA, a Super Blackhawk, was a learning experience.  I found that placing my pinkie finger under the butt of the grip really helped with the rolling motion.  I then ordered a set of Hogue's for it and it really made it a lot more comfortable and controlable although it takes away from the classic look of a SA revolver.