I carry a 329pd daily. The loads I use are 240 grn bullets at 1000 fps. On the range while practicing I notice the recoil. I've shot pigs, snakes and shot at coyotes and other pest in the fields and woods and did not notice the recoil. All the times I carry the 329pd I do not notice the weight of the gun. I have carried steel guns and was constantly aware of the weight. the 329pd is a great 44sp and can be a brutal 44mag. If you reload you can taylor the ammo to the job and your comfort level. Or get a 329pd to carry and a beater 29 to practice with. here is my 329.