I have the 329PD and really like this revolver. I fell in love with it when it first came out and just finally obtained one in a trade. Mine came ported which I suppose helps in muzzle rise. It does kick with full house magnum loads but having shot a lot of maximum loads in other 44s this one is not unmanageable. I do prefer reloads of 240gr lead bullets at around 1000fps which shoot very accurately and are easier to control.

Smith says that the titanium cylinder will handle any normal 44mag loadings just like it's steel cylinders. I only load hot loads to be shot in my Ruger revolvers and not in any Smiths.

My son said he though I was crazy to get the 329 but he also loves the gun and like to take it with us every time we go to the range.