I have a 396, the bigger brother, with a 3 " + barrel and a hammer, that is my carry gun. I have spent a lot of time in the southern woods at all times of the year and a 44 special with shot shells have taken many a slithery varmint life over the years. I love my 396, its a great carry gun as I can carry all day and never know its there on my belt. I use 200 gr reloads to Cowboy Action specs for shooting at the range. Yes, you do not want to run 50-100 rounds thru it at the range, but it has a purpose. It is always in the car with me when I travel. I did change out the grips to a set of Decelerators to cover the back strap and enjoy a few rounds in practice. Go buy the gun, if you carry, you will love the gun, yes, they are a specialty gun but look a what you are pumping out the barrel when compared to a 38/357. Its not a 44 mag, but a lot of the time, all you need is that 44 special case.