My first 29 was an 8 3/8" that was magnaported. Bought it used when I was 21 and shot quite a few deer with it. A few years later, picked up a scoped contender in 7X30 waters and having a long barreled 44 just didn't make sense. The contender was going to take care of anything 50 - 200 yards. The open sighted 44 is carried for something that walked in underneath the treestand or a circumstance needing quick reaction and acquisition. Typically 50 yards or less.

Sold the 8 3/8" and picked up a 6.5" 629 classic. Settled on a bianci crossdraw and never looked back. It's a lot easier to carry and less awkward than the 8 3/8". The 6.5" still goes with me even when carrying my 308. Never know when a nice buck is going to pop up in front of the 4 wheeler and stop/stare at you. That 44 still comes in handy when a deer sneaks in to 20 yards without you seeing it, or pops up while you are answering a call to nature. Takes some practice shooting from a "squatting" position though.. 8-)