The 696's are round butt L-frames - they'll take any K/L frame round butt grip. I like my 696-1, bought new 1/03 for $439 + s/t, some days as shown below - others, wearing a finger groove version of the same Ahrends cocobolo square conversion stocks. My 296 was bought the same day as the 696 as new closeout for $349. Both are keepers. The 296 was miserable in those wood service boots - quickly reverted back to it's OEM Goodyears (Uncle Mikes Boots) for CC.
The Uncle Mike's combats that come on the 696 are rounded - the squared version, usually found on the later longer model K-frames (10, 64, 65, 66, 67), are even better than the originals as far as recoil is concerned. Realistically, at my .44 Russian and Special homebrew's level, the wood is perfect.
The Georgia Arms version of the Speer 200gr Gold Dot chrono's the same as the Al-cased CCI Blazer, yet includes a Starline brass case... and is cheaper! After thousands of many different caliber Blazers, I finally had one split it's case - and it was a 200gr GD - in my 696! No more, thank you. If you don't reload, save the brass - you eventually will reload. I never thought I would, either - I started reloading seven years ago...
Speaking of ammo - check small makers for .44 Special 'cowboy ammo'. It'll be lead - and about the least expensive ammo you'll find. I like .44 Russians, too - just make sure they are not loaded with blackpowder - it's a chore to clean up after!
Enjoy your 696 - it's a fun .44 Special.
Stainz