I have 2 N frames, a 27-2 with an 8 3/8" barrel and a 6" 57. I had the opportunity to buy a Model 28, but chose a Trooper MKIII instead.

I have used my 27 for 200m silhouette and bowling pins, it shoots great. I bought the 57 for handgun hunting, but I never got the opportunity before becoming disabled. For me, I reload, so I am not a slave to ammo availability. In addition, you never know how your shooting tastes will change over time, and what will be available.

If you reload, and handgun hunting could be in the cards, I would suggest that you might look at a Model 57 in 41 Magnum. The 41 Magnum can handle up to black bear. Otherwise, I would suggest either the model 27 or 28 with 6", which should be adequate for boar or deer, with acknowledgement of limitations.

For me, I have shied away from the 44 Magnum, because I felt it was too much gun for me. You can look at a variant of the 29, but you may decide the 44 is too much for you, after the purchase.

__________________
Judge control not gun control!