I have a 5 inch Redhawk and it was my first .44 mag.

I bought a 4 inch 29 a while back and don't have enough rounds through it but I will not put the high end rounds through it like I would the redhawk... I will use the smith for lighter to standard loads and enjoy it.

I used that 5 inch redhawk for many years and it was a good "one .44 mag gun" choice- from mild to wild loads it shot straight and just fine- still does actually.

I wanted the smith and would get another 5-6.5 inch smith if found "right" but I also don't see my Rugers leavin anytime soon