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My new toy, a M-69, 4.25"

Range play will be with 240gr SWC in front of Trailboss, or Universal.

But the intended purpose for the gun was to have around the trout streams in case of bear issues. For that I was going to carry a magnum load. I trout fish in the Cherokee National Forest, so we are talking smaller black bears, with which there is rarely a problem. When the is a problem, the roar of a magnum anything will most likely be enough to send Yogi on the run. But I want it loaded for "What if".

The secondary purpose will be for two legged threats, far more dangerous than bear. A .44 special load would be preferable here. This is for dinner out with my wife. where it'll reside in the console of my GMC. My edc, is a CA Undercover Police, but in the summer I carry less.

Maybe considering:
Federal 240gr Fusion in .44 Mag
&
165gr Hornady CD in .44-Spl

A 240 gr lswc with 10 gr of Unique is a nice load
A 240 gr jsp with 20-21 gr of 2400 is a great loudenboomer

Personally I like Buffalo Bore.

My choice in 44 special 200 grain hardcast wadcutter.

Buffalo Bore Ammo 44 Special 200 Grain Hard Cast Lead - MPN: 14E/20

Or, 44 special 200 grain Barnes TAC-XP Hollow Point.

Buffalo Bore Ammo 44 Special 200 Grain Barnes TAC-XP - MPN: 14D/20

IN 44 magnum 200 grain hardcast wadcutter.

Buffalo Bore Ammo 44 Remington Mag 200 Grain Hard Cast - MPN: 4J/20

Or 225 grain Barnes XPB Hollow Point.

Buffalo Bore Ammo 44 Remington Mag 225 Grain Barnes XPB - MPN: 4L/20

It's expensive but worth the money. All four loads I have found to be very accurate. I carry with the wadcutters and use the hollow points for my reloads.

The wadcutter are perfect for bears and 2 legged critters with heavy clothing or drugged out people.

I to have a M69 with the 4.24" barrel, lightweight carry for sure.

Remember , the recovery time for the 2nd shot ( if necessary ) is very important . Practice with whatever you choose . Bears have a very slow heart rate , so shot placement is key . I would not use anything that expands . You want penetration most of all . Practice and see how many of those 5 rounds you can put on target in 7 seconds . It will surprise you . Regards, Paul

I also have a Model 69 with the 4+ inch barrel. My favorite .44 Special load is the Hornady 180 grain XTP load. Muzzle velocity of 1000 fps with ME of 400 ft/lbs.