I had a 296 airlite ti in 44 special which had the outline with the "hump" of a bodyguard but the hammer was concealed ala a 640/442 etc.... It was built on an L frame and weighed 18.5 ozs I believe.
I had Little Feather make a holster for it and I carried it for about 3 months before I found my 640-1. I carry iwb and it was too bulky for my build. Little Feather told me he made a pocket holster for an Indianapolis police officer who carried his 296 in the cargo pocket of his off duty trousers. Needless to say he was a big man.
Recoil was a might stout and I think you had to shoot 200 gr or less out of it. I hope this helps.