Revolver's

[Fishslayer]

I am also getting into reloading so I'm leaning towards Ruger because of their strength but I shot a Smith a couple years back and it shot nice.

Depends on the gun. A model 27 or 28-2 is an N frame that handles .44 Magnum. If you're looking for strength they're a step up from the 686. You'ld have to screw the pooch pretty badly to blow up an N frame .357.

If the GP-100 was up to it I believe we'd have seen one in .44 Magnum by now instead of that rather...shall we say... "less than stunningly beautiful" Super Redhawk.

[Mr. Beretta]

Your sidearm, when you're carrying a rifle, is insurance. Granted your 308, 30.06, 7mm packs allot more punch but unless you carry your rifle at the ready position all the time, chances are if confronted by a animal that wants to harm you, you can bring your sidearm into service faster than your rifle.

Having said that, the revolver should be (like others have mentioned) a Ruger GP100, Redhawk, S&W 586, 686, N frame like 27, 28, 57, 29, etc. in at least a 357 mag, 41 mag, 44 mag caliber. The Ruger Blackhawks are excellent as well but I perfer a D/A vs. a S/A. I suggest a 4" barrel rather than a 6" barrel. The 4" will come out of the holster faster. Usually these encounters are unexpected, up close and personal. Every micro second counts.

Heavy grain bullets work best. Good Luck.

[picasso]

I would get a Ruger GP100 or a S&W 686. The GP100 is less money than the 686 and would work perfect for your intended use.

+1 on the ruger gp100. get the six inch barrel.