<Now as to Charter's 44's I wouldn't have one if they were free.>

That's what I traded in toward the purchase price of my 696. I liked the concept of the light weight frame of the "Bulldog", but mine shot slightly off point of aim with ho-hum accuracy. My 696 will shoot tighter groups at 25yds. than that Bulldog would shoot at 25ft. I would not hesitate to take a head shot in a hostage situation at 25yds. with my 696. Mine is spot on with my handloads.