Quote:
Originally Posted by Dave T
Following along with Bill's comments, I have never figured out why S&W can't build a 44 Special on an L-frame and have a thick enough forcing cone when Charter Arms manages it in what is essentially a D-frame (Dick Special) Colt size revolver. Charter is still building them but S&W insists they can't manage a K-frame, 5-shot 44 Special. Baffling!
Dave
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I had a Charter .44, the forcing cone was almost non existent on that gun, one of the reason I sold it.
The 696 really was a dud as I remember looking at L frames when these came out. No one wanted them. I passed on it one and went with a 686+ instead. Every once in awhile I would come across a post where someone tried to feed the 696 a hot load and killed the forcing cone.
Stick to standard Spl loads and the 696 is a nice gun. Try to mimic Elmer Keith and you can kiss it goodbye.
I agree that the price of this model has been driven up by collectors. I've picked up a few 624's and 24's cheaper and have been happier with the savings.