For lack of use I sold my 5.5" Redhawk .44 mag several years back and then a few months ago I started missing having a .44 mag around to shoot.
I found a minty safe queen 7.5" stainless 1989 mfg Redhawk (not Super) in late May priced right and I jumped on it.
I wasn't looking to work up a hard thumping hunting load I just wanted something that was comfortable to shoot and accurate enough to plink with out to 75yds. to 100 yds. and still be able to harvest game with if I was out and had the opportunity using the bullets I had on hand which were Hornady 240 gr. XTP's......on the box Hornady says the 240 gr. .44 XTP's recommended velocity is between 700 and 1500 fps.
I had some H110, 2400, Unique and Winch. 231 on hand and I picked W231 because I've got quite a bit of it.
Hodgdon W231 data using a 8.275" barrel:
Min. 8.0 grs. @ 1021 fps
Max. 11.0 grs. @1272 fps
My accuracy load with the 240 gr. XTP's ended up being 9.5 grs. of W231 powder with Winch. std / mag LP primers.
I haven't fired the load past about 60-65 yds. or ran it across a chrony but it is comfortable to shoot and accurate......I'm happy.
