A 240/250 grain semi wadcutter, pushed at 750 to 800 feet per second. What would you want to do to need any more than that? The 696 is a relatively compact revolver with a relatively short barrel, designed for those who desire and trust a large bore handgun for self defense. It is not a long range weapon, a hunting gun, or a competition piece. Therefore, why would anyone desire to shoot anything hotter than a proven (pardon the redundance) 240/250 grain semi wadcutter, pushed at 750 to 800 feet per second?

Please correct me if I am wrong. The above described load would in my estimation equate to perhaps 15,000 pounds pressure, easily under the range of 'hot', and rendering any forcing cone issue moot.

In summary, keep the load at a reliable, accurate, deadly velocity, and the 696 will function as designed indefinately. JMHO