I’m not trying persuade anyone, just relating my experience.

There’s no right or wrong answer here, just what works best for you in your specific circumstances.

I can put up with the wear related issues, It’s the weight that I have a problem with.

Ruger’s Website lists the Alaskan’s weight as follows:
Alaskan .44 Mag = 45 oz
Alaskan .454 C = 44 oz

On my electronic scale S&W’s weigh (unloaded and Hogue 500s):
629 Mtn Pistol .44 Mag = 39 oz
625 Mtn Pistol .45 Colt = 37 oz
329 PD .44 Mag = 25 oz (empty) 29 oz (loaded w/260WFNGCs)

That is from 3/4Lb to 1 1/4Lb more for the above listed handguns vs. the 329 PD. That is a lot of additional weight to carry all day every day, even more so if you are in mountainous terrain above 5,000 ft. For this old body, it makes a huge difference.

I’ve tried all different kinds of carry – shoulder holsters, cross draw, inside the waist band, dedicated belt/holster rig, wide belts, narrow belts, etc., etc. I can do many of these for limited periods of time – just not all day for multiple days.

I’ve settled on the 329 in a Simply Rugged sourdough pancake carried on a Milt Sparks 1 ½” gunbelt threaded thru my pants loops and positioned over my right kidney – for me this has proven to be the best compromise. For sure, everyone is different and what works for me won’t necessarily work for others.

Here's a picture of one of my 329s and the much used holster:





Here are my three most shot handguns -- all of which have had repairs (6" Freedom Arms .475 Linebaugh, 4 1/4" FA M97 .45 Colt and the 329).



Threads without pictures just aren't quite as much fun. Too much time on my hands I guess -- it's a rainy wet, miserable day here.

FWIW,

Paul