Looking at the HSM .44 Mag loading of a 240 gr LSWC at 1150 fps from a 4.5" test barrel (per HSM customer service). They are available locally at retail for reasonable price.

With the discontinuation of older "mid-range" loads, would this loading be appropriate for more extended practice sessions with my 629 "No Dash" versus something like AE or WWB 240 gr jacketed?

I do not want to drop down to actual .44 Specials or .44 Special equivalent loadings if not absolutely necessary.

My 629 "No Dash" is still in perfect mechanical condition and I would like to keep it that way moving forward.

Thanks!

I own a 629-1 and a 29-2. The only advice I can give is what was told to me when I bought these 2 revolvers.

The warning was these guns were designed for the 240 gr bullet and I should never shoot ammo with anything heavier than 240 gr.

I've followed that advice for 24 years and both guns are holding up fine.

Your 629 will eat those loads the way my brother-in-law eats salted peanuts. Both you and the revolver should be well-pleased...

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Pisgah

A 240 grain SWC at 1,150 fps would have plenty of power for me and not make my hand or ears sore and I actually have no desire to shoot anything more powerful than that out of handgun since I've gotten older. I got rid of my M29 and M58 and the hottest ammo I shoot is my M&P 10mm.

The big issue with the pre-endurance package 29/629 was with the use of full power ammo using bullets weighing more than 250 grains.

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VCDL, GOA, NRA

Georgia Arms has a couple of 44 magnum loads with a 240 grain bullet at 1000 fps. The plated bullet version is my favorite ammo when I take my S&W 69 to the range (.44 Rem Mag 240gr Full Metal Jacket NEW - Georgia Arms). The last time I bought some was pre-pandemic and unfortunately the price has doubled since then to $55/50 round bag. The version with a LSWC bullet is 10% less expensive.

This ammo is stronger than any 44 Special but weak compared to most full power factory ammo. It shoots well in my 69 but might be weaker than what you are looking for. In the 69 it is strong enough to be interesting but not so punishing I want to quit after a few cylinders.

You and Your gun will like the HSM ammo.

18.5 - 19 grains of 2400 will get you there no problem.

Finding a factory load for that exact spec may be tough.

Owning 44 Magnums I have no idea why you'd want to limit yourself to factory loads! Holy cow are they over priced.