Why hotrod a .44 Special? Seriously, it is potentially very dangerous. If you need more oomph, get a .44 Magnum. Look below to see what an additional six ounces gets you:



Seriously - you can buy a new 4" 629, SKU #163603, for less than many folks will sell you a used 696. You'll get a real fc, another chamber in the cylinder, an inch more barrel, larger hammer and trigger, and the ability to launch real Magnums, when needed. There are a few 3" special runs, too. Save two ounces - find a 629MG. My 4" 629 is my favorite .44 Special.

Oh yeah, I bought the 696-1 new ($439) along with a closeout priced new 296 ($349!) on the same day - nearly seven years ago - and got another $10 off for buying the pair at the same time. The 296 gets some CCW use - the 696 is pure fun - often with 240gr LRNFP/LSWC over 3.5gr Titegroup in .44 Russian cases for 693 fps - a poof load that makes 'major' power factor. The 696 is for .44 S&W Special SAAMI-spec'd loads. I am sure the heat treatment is different from that of a 29/629 - maybe even a 686!

Of course, the 696 you overload is yours - do with it what you will.

Stainz

PS In the line of 'If it fits....', take the cylinder out of a 625 MG chambered for .45 Colt... try a Hornady .454 Casull round. Hmmm, it fits... instant grenade - and, similarly, is insane to shoot in anything with a S&W logo on it other than a .460 Magnum. Let's be safe out there!