A 44 mag 3" is alot of gun to carry. Maybe it is all you have, that being so a 44 Special is the safe ticket. Being that it is a 44 Magnum, it leaves lots of room for the range of more powerful rounds for other applications. It is a very intimidating weapon if presented, and hopefull that is all it will take to make the aggresive person think twice about his plan. Out of the three times I have drawn my gun, twice I have not had to fire it, the two legged kind changed their mind on the spot. The third was a black bear deep in the back bush, but again we both lived. Good luck with your choice. Remember to always follow the law, and stay alert.