I own a 29-2 nickel 6 1/2 and a blued 29-3 8 3/8. I have been shooting both a lot lately because I'm working hard on my Revolver marksmanship. I'm getting pretty deadly at 50 yds with the 8 3/8 barrel from a solid rest. The 6 1/2 would be easier to wear w/ a holster. When I'm hunting varmints/pigs etc. I usually carry the pistol, holstered in my hand, because I hate belts around my not so slim waist. I can shoot the longer barrel better. I can pack the shorter barrel easier. I usually head out the door w/ the 8 3/8s so I don't scratch the nickel on the 6 1/2. The only pig I've shot so far was with a custom 29 in 45 Colt w/ a 5 inch barrel. So, go figure. This response probably doesn't help you very much. If I could only have one 44 Mag it would be a 6 inch barrel. Dread the thought.

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beaver