Avery, I think you made a great deal -- and I like the .44 special round - I have a 329 PD (4" bbl) and carry .44 special rounds in it -
it has been my usual farm carry weapon (other than a 651 PD on some days) ever since some miscreant broke into my truck and stole my 327 PD (which I have been trying to replace since). I just bought a TALO
629 (3" barrel) which I will carry with .44 spec rounds (except the grips are really beautiful, rosewood -- will be a bring to BBQ or farm dance gun). That being said, (and this is the mediator in me coming out) -
all on this thread need to hum "Kumbaya" for about 20 seconds re the proper loading for .44 spec rounds, lol.
To make you feel even better, if you don't like your new 696, Pm me --
I'll give you $200 over what you paid for it. (offer good for 30 days).
Go shoot it, enjoy it and let the force be with you!!
All the best, COL J