Back when I seen them on the shelves, I should have bought 3 or 4 of them but was ore into Cz collecting (Founder, CZ forum.com) then
concentrating on my .44 Specials (Charter, 624) and .44 Mags.

The 696 offered a heavier gun than the Bulldog, and not too much
more money thand a Charter Arms,.before S&W jumped in price.

It was cool, but not the DA .44 Special that I dreamed about to go with my other Ruger DA and Single-actions.

Now that we have had the GP44 for a couple years, I think that Smith
should bring back the 696.

I'm out of reloading for good, and the only .44 Special I can find locally is
Speer 200 grain Gold Dot, but still know where awe some carry ammo is:



So, the practice ammo issue leaves the GP44, Bulldogs
and any new or used 696 revolvers off the table for me.

So enjoy them all.