I own a number of Ruger Blackwawks and my 50th 357 is the best one by far. I did have Hogue make a pair of fancy walnut grips which are not only beautiful but also fit my hand better than the factory plastic grips. I have a 28-2 and a 686 Clasic Hunter, and the 50th is still my favorite. I would not convert it to 44. Instead, buy a 50th 44 Mag flat top. They have a 6.5" bbl and shoot very well. And don't fear the lock since it is under the grips and totally out of sight.