We really shouldn't hijack this thread to 44 mag, but since it is already going........ I have a 629-3 with the full underlug in a 5" barrel. Shooting 44 special handloads the recoil is minimal at best. Accuracy is great. I do not care for the looks of the full under lug barrel and do prefer the looks of the mountain gun barrel,(44 special taper).

I would advise against any ported guns. They are detrimental in shooting as has been aleady stated. I think ported are fine for target, long barreled guns.

Both of my sons have the newer IL 4" barreled 629's and one has shot 9" groups at 100 yards. I can't see that far without a scope. LOL

John