Thanks for the info. After reading the comments I'm picking up a 69 with the 2.75" barrel tomorrow on hold for me. I have a Lew Horton 629 with the 3" barrel. So I know it will be another flame thrower and recoil is brutal. I was concerned about the 2 piece barrel.

I have a M&P 340 with the 2 piece barrel and have had no problems. However I have shot only a few 357 magnums rounds, mostly 38 special + P without any problems.

Plan on taking the 69 to the range Monday. Only other concern is if the barrel isn't canted. If it is I probably won't buy it.