Yes, the SS 696 was made in a wide range of barrel lengths.... okay, just 3" only! Some 696-1, which is the model I have, were aftermarket fitted with compensation. The one my dealer replaced mine with in the display case was comped - and sat for a while. Actually, when I bought mine, 1/2003, it's yellow '$439' price tag was faded by the flurescent lights. I also bought a new 296, the AirLite-Ti 2.5" hammerless Al/Ti version, for $349 - less another $10 because I bought both - my biggest S&W purchase day until my PC627 UDR in April of this year.
They made the 696 initially, followed by the MIM hammer/trigger & frame-mounted fp 696-1, and then, in late 2001-2002, the IL-equipped 696-2 - which may be the rarest. All - as well as the 296 & 396 models - have a dimunitive forcing cone. Be careful of 'hot' loads - this is not an 'Elmer Keith' level .44 Special revolver. At it's 35.5 oz level, you only need to add another 6 oz to get a really capable .44 Special - one that will obviously take 'Keith' level .44 Specials - it's a 4" 629 - a true .44 Magnum!
I'll sell my 3" 696 long before the 4" 629, actually, a current production 629-6 SKU #163603. You gain another inch of barrel, another hole in the cylinder, and larger hammer and trigger, not to mention the higher energy level capability. I've seen new 4" 629's for less than the used 696 prices, too. Something else to consider.... and, you gain another caliber - .44 Russian, Special, and Magnum!
Stainz
PS I know, the 696 is cute... but the 4" 629 is practical.
