I think a large frame non Magnum heavy caliber revolver in still has its uses in 2015 Amerika beyond range toy and Bowling Pin Gunnery. Despite what some critics of the revolver will say such as Browncoat (see Reagan revolver thread) wheel guns are not Fudd guns. As Clint Smith says "revolvers are real guns." People will diss size and weight of an N frame Smith and then pack a full size 1911 of similar size and weight. Granted, 1911 conceals better, carries up to 50 percent more rounds and is easier to reload. I carry a S&W Mod 22 Thunder Ranch or a 1911, and the 1911 doesn't conceal that much better cuz I dress around the gun. It becomes moot in an open carry situation. Reloading with moon clips not to much different, capacity 1911 excels. Simplicity of manual of arms goes to the revolver, no safety to deal with, reliability pull trigger, gun goes bang. No bang? Pull trigger again and cylinder again advances.
Now the beauty of the new Ruger is interoperability. The idea of platform handling multiple calibers is very appealing. It's what makes the .357 Magnum a standout, the 9mm/40/357 Sig barrel interchangeability option appealing. As we move forward into uncertain times with potentially more ammunition shortages and who knows what kind of potential social and political turmoil and upheaval having firearms that handle multiple calibers from a survivalist perspective is not a bad idea. I would feel very comfortable and well armed with one of these RedHawks on my hip as an EDC gun, or as a back up to my shoulder fired weapon in a SHTF scenario, very well armed indeed.
I have been contemplating getting an extra .45 LC cylinder and having it fitted to my Model 22. An costly proposition. This way it comes from the factory without extra gun smithing. A good idea. I hope Ruger sells a lot of these. I'd like to see it in the product line for a long time.
