Nice to read all these opinions. Can't add anything in that regard. I just picked up a pre-24 (6" bright blue, circa 1955, 98% condition) and went to the range today. Absolutely beautiful gun but initial loads are a bit disappointing - the best going around 2.5" @ 25 yards. Will work up others. Slugged the cylinder and barrel - very tight. Has anyone tried .429 cast bullets (aka .44-40) in one of these? What have you folks found to be a good bullet/propellant combination? Agree - this is NOT a .44 mag. The Special is what it is and should be kept lower pressure.