So, I've been offered a trade for a 396 no dash Mt Light 44 spec for my 38/44 HD. I don't see many 396s out there. Does this seem like a decent trade? Is the 396 desirable? Thanks.

The non-IL versions of the 396 are a delight to carry, and can be a handful to shoot. I have seen several sell in the 700-800 range.

I would not trade a transitional HD for one though.....

__________________
On the Oak Savannah

And the 396s with IL aren't a pleasure to carry - too heavy

Its a gun I classify with the 329PD. I've had both, note "had".

Built on a scandium frame with a Titanium cylinder. In 44 Special the Ti cylinder probably wouldn't erode as badly as the magnum, but it's still an odd chice to use Titamium for a revolver cylinder.

The scandium/Titanium combo makes them very light and they have significant recoil, even in .44 Special.

And finally, the 396 shares a trait with the 696, extremely thin walls on the forcing cone, the section of the barrel that protrudes into the frame. I sold my 696 because of this. note that S&W had remedied this on the new Model 69.

The 396 Mountain Lite is cool looking little gun, and extremely lightweight. Some probably disagree with me, but I sold mine for a decent chunk of money and never looked back. If you want something similar, less refined, but without the drawbacks, checkout the Charter Arms bulldog. I found an early Stratford made gun for under $300. Loaded with CCI shot loads, it's a pretty formidable snake charmer. Loaded with CCI Blazer 200 gr hollow points it's a good self defense gun.

I have a 296 (and 696) and wouldn't hesitate to buy a 396 should one come my way. Now, whether to trade a 38/44 HD for one? Would depend on the condition of the HD I guess. If the HD is in really nice condition, say 90+% I'd probably keep the HD. On the other hand, I've seen quite a few well used (and some abused) HDs that I would willing trade for a nice condition 396. Good luck.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

Thanks guys. I'm going to pass on that trade.