I came across one of these, its a 7.5 inch. I love this Gun it is massive in its construction and I know they don't make them anymore, but I was wandering if they are rare, and how long did Ruger make them? (in 357 magnum) I have yet to find another.
I have the same setup. The story I've been told is when
Dirty Harry came out in the mid '80's EVERYONE wanted the .44 magnum, so Ruger discontinued the .357 and focused production on the .44's. The .357's had a very short run, 1 year, maybe 2.
If you have a stainless redhawk in .357 Mag, you have a somewhat rare piece. Mine unfortunately does not have the scope mount option. I haven't needed a scope for pig and javalina hunting, but for long shots on the range, my eyes just can't adjust to the front sight and target anymore. Just a blurry mess.
It's a beautiful firearm, and if it wasn't already showing it's age, I'd lock it up in a glass case. Good luck with your research and please post your results. I'd like to see what you find out.