Thinking about a .44

[Kelster1574]

Thinking about a .44 for my next handgun purchase. I currently only own one revolver, a S&W 686 plus, not that I don't like revolvers.....I just haven't found one I like as much as my S&W. I will be using it for punching paper (rarely) and taking with me on hunts. Which ones should I look at and why?

[DT556]

629 PC

[Renaissance Redneck]

I have several in my safe, including a Colt Anaconda and a Ruger Super Blackhawk. I have also shot the Super Redhawk and the Desert Eagle. If I wanted a .44 for your purposes and I didn't already have one, I would buy the Ruger Super Blackhawk, without question; single action, uber-tough, reliable, with classic looks.

[toyotaguy]

I love my Redhawk in 44magnum with the 7.5" barrel, it shoots great and has double or single action, I have carried it hunting in a leather holster from my belt and it is a heavy beast to carry for very far, but for punching paper it is one of my favorites and is always a hit with everyone I go shooting with, and if you hand load 44spl and 44mag are very reasonably priced and versatile, everything from light 44spls that your grandma can shoot to very stout magnums that may make you cringe.

[morrcarr67]

I used to have a Dan Wesson 744HV. It was a great gun. I would highly recommend it.

[JeremyS]

Oooh the DW revolvers are sexy, and swappable barrels is awesome.

OP -- your Ruger avatar makes me think maybe you're a fan? haha anyway I picked up a new model super blackhawk in .44 mag from a member on here a month or so ago and really enjoy shooting it! I wanted to add a single action 'cowboy-style' revolver to my collection, and in a caliber that starts with 4. This thing is fun to shoot (and it even came with a nice leather cowboy holster and cartridge loop belt and a Hogue rubber grip) and you can find used ones for at great prices!

[bruss01]

I really like my Ruger Redhawk.

[shooting4life]

S&W 629 no dash, only P&R stainless N frame

629pc carry comp


If you really want to step up in power you can get a Dan Wesson 445 Supermag

[marathonman]

I love my 629 3" . Excellent fit and finish. Perfect size for a .44 IMHO

[redcliff]

3" or 4" barrel S&W 629 is what I'd suggest for a fairly light .44 magnum revolver while hunting and occasional range use. I like the pre-lock/pre-mim models with the firing pin on the hammer. I prefer adjustable sights so you can zero to your load/distance as there is quite a variance in velocity and bullet weights in the .44special/magnum ammunition available.

While not as strong as the Rugers for shooting crazy loads, they are lighter in weight for carrying along with your hunting rifle. Although I like single-actions, I greatly prefer swing-out cylinders and double action capability. I have a 3" 629-4 which has the enhancements to the bolt lock-up and have it on my carry permit for precisely the type of use you propose.

Most of your range time should be with .44 special/equivalent loads anyway which are much more enjoyable to shoot for extended periods imho. I like the .44 special 240 gr jhp Bitterroot Valley ammo (BVAC) from Cheaper than Dirt a lot.

[k1dude]

If you're using it for paper and taking on hunts, and like semi-autos more than revolvers, you might consider a Glock 20SF in 10mm.

It packs a wallop, is indestructable and reliable, and weighs FAR less than any .44 revolver for packing in the backcountry. And it carries 15 rounds instead of 6.

Ballistically it falls between a .357 mag and a .41 mag. It's often used for hunting bear and is regularly used for protection by guides and pilots in Alaska.

I retired my .41 mag as my backcountry backup for a 10mm Glock. And I LOVE my .41 mag. But I wanted the lighter weight and greater firepower of the Glock. It's also comforting to know I have that 10mm when I come across pot farms.

[robert101]

Okay, there are a lot of good choices in 44 and 44 mag. I'm partial to the S&W 629. It is a quality 44 mag that fires 44 special as well. Mine was purchased in about 1984 and has seen many target and full-house rounds and is still tight and smooth as silk. It is likely my favorite handgun close or tied with my 1911 Dan Wesson PM7 10MM.

[Fishslayer]

S&W 629 no dash, only P&R stainless N frame

My M66 no dash NEEDS a Big Brother.

[Hardwarejunkie]

Thinking about a .44 for my next handgun purchase.

Me too!

First choice S&W 629 Classic 5" barrel.


Second choice Ruger New Model Super Blackhawk Hunter 7.5" barrel

[stevec223]

s&w

ive got a s&w 629 4 inch and put the crimson trace rubber grips on it....(polymer grips were too slippery !)...perfect camp gun to me and i dont have to adjust my holster every time i sit down....like with my ruger sbh 7 1/2 in. which was fired from the job and sold...easier to reload s&w too... just my 2 cents..... cheers...