If I wanted a .44 Special I would look for one of the S&W 1980s M24s or just get a .44 Magnum Mountain Gun and load light.
I think the Original Redhawk is a good revolver but have heard that its single spring action is harder to tune up than a GP or Super Redhawk. One of the custom Rugersmiths is cutting the front frame extension off of Super Redhawks and installing Original Redhawk barrels, making them look like a big GP. Not cheaply, of course.