Magnum Research Desert Eagle Israeli .41/44 6” 44 Magnum Semi-Auto Pistol
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
LSB#: LSB250527MS056
Make: Magnum Research
Model: Desert Eagle Pre-Series
Serial Number: 50966
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .44 Magnum
Action Type: Semi Auto Gas Operated, Rotating Bolt, single action, magazine fed pistol.
Markings: The right side of the slide is marked “MAGNUM RESEARCH, INC. MINNEAPOLIS, MINN MADE IN ISRAEL” The right side of the frame is marked “50966”. The left side of the slide is marked “®DESERT EAGLE -.41/44 MAGNUM PISTOL ISRAEL MILITARY INDUSTRIES”. The left side of the barrel is marked “.44”.
Barrel Length: 6”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an orange blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable rectangular notch sight with white outline dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a plastic wrap around grip that encloses the backstrap. The front strap is smooth. The grip shows wear from age with some minor handling wear. There are a few hairline scratches in the smooth borders. There are no visible cracks. Overall the grips are in Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: This pistol includes one 44 magnum 8 round magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Black.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the polygonal rifling is well defined and clean. There is no erosion or pitting. The feed ramp is smooth and shiny. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol is in overall Very Good+ to Excellent condition showing only minor surface level lines that are typical for this style of finish. The pistol is very clean and shows no real notable marks or marrs. The action is smooth. The markings are clear and the pins un-marred.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol includes the one magazine.
Our Assessment: This pre-series Desert Eagle, marked “.41/.44,” is an early and collectible example of the iconic gas-operated magnum semi-automatic pistol, manufactured in Israel by Israel Military Industries (IMI). The “.41/.44” frame designation indicates compatibility with both .41 Magnum and .44 Magnum barrels and components, though this particular setup includes a .44 Magnum barrel. These early models feature a large-frame design with a distinctive industrial aesthetic and robust internals capable of handling high-pressure magnum loads, setting them apart from conventional recoil-operated pistols.
Equipped with a fully adjustable rear sight and an orange front blade, this model was clearly intended for precision shooting as well as raw power. The 8-round magazine provides solid capacity for the .44 Magnum chambering, which delivers significant stopping power and deep penetration, making the Desert Eagle popular for handgun hunting and metallic silhouette shooting. Being made in Israel before production shifted to the U.S., this version also carries additional collector value. Its early engineering, unique dual-caliber marking, and original IMI heritage make it a desirable piece for enthusiasts of magnum semi-autos and military-industrial design. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
