If all you need, & want, is the power of a SAAMI spec 44 Special, then grab a 696.
If you want the option to up the power to something between a 44 Spcl & a 44 Mag (or higher) then a snubby M69 would be my suggestion.
The 396/696's have thinner forcing cones that are subject to damage if you try to make a magnum out of them. I've loaded my 396NG 44 Spcl to 22K psi handloads, & a little higher, without issues, but I reserve hot loads for the stronger 44s.
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