Decision on What SW 44 Magnum to Buy

[cladd1]

I assume there is very little difference in perceived recoil between the 5” and 6” models with only 5 ounces difference in weight?

 

[Law-dog]

I have had the 4 inch since 1981, and killed a deer with it at 75-80 yards once. I also have 44s in 2.75 inch and 5.5 inch. My primary use for 44 these days is to carry in cat or bear country when packing out game or just hiking, or camping in such areas. The 4 inch is the best balance of all, for that purpose.

If buying today, I would probably opt for the 4 inch mountain gun for those purposes. For a range gun, the snub nose is a blast, shoot full power loads and enjoy the noise, that is what magnum are for. The snub nose guns are great for knocking down those steel gongs at 25 yards, real power that you can see and hear.

 

[daverich4]

If you're looking for a range gun I'd go with a 6 or 8 3/8" barrel. The longer sight radius helps with your accuracy and the extra steel makes for a more pleasant range day. Just my 2 cents.
Here's two of my favorites.

Or you could just put a red dot on it…

 

[tate razor]

The 29-5 Classic DX or the 629 Classic DX are hard to beat! They came with a factory fired target @50 yards. The had to put 5 in a 1 1//2" group with the Federal factory 240 gr. JHP.

 

[S&W 44MAG]

how about a 4 inch 629 no dash in wooden case

 

[stansdds]

I assume there is very little difference in perceived recoil between the 5” and 6” models with only 5 ounces difference in weight?

There would be a difference, the laws of physics are absolute. Less firearm mass with the same ammo will result in increased recoil.