Smith Wesson 44 Magnum ammo question/choice

[__steve__]

Hi
I am a novice owner and weapons user myself. My first weapon is a 629-6, also was the first pistol I've used (other than BB gun). I Have used rifles in military for training in the AF. Nevertheless, as a newb I bought my 44 magnum just this August. I fired about 450 rounds through it, the highest muzzle energy per rated by ammo I have used was 971 ft/lbs. I read on a box of Garrett rounds that 38,000 cup is about max for the SW 44, I believe equivalent to 1200ft/lbs (keep in mind this is new to me so take it for what it's worth). The 44 ammo higher than 38,000 specifically states the weapons capable (Redhawk), and SW44 wasn't. I have read the SAAMI publications which go in length the details of testing procedures and results, but it does not entail any list of barrel limit (for instance ft/lbs) for a weapon.

As far as choice of first weapon, I do find my 44magnum rather simple and easy to use, even with boxes heavier rated ammo, and the recoil just feels quite manageable. Probably because my arms are long? I don't know, I only weigh 165. Anyhow, for my second weapon I bought a PC S&W500 3.5" earlier this month and have fired about 220 rounds through that. One thing I noticed on both is to treat that single action the same as pulling the trigger - keep it aimed on target when cocked

As far as home defense? I would use some 180gr 44 specials, but my wife would have already unloaded half a magazine of 9mm on the intruder

 

[Toppscore]

Decision on 44 magnum gun bullets.

Thanks. Hopefully my Springfield XD9mm will be in my possession
within five days and will be my main home defense gun.
My 686/357 magnum is a hobby gun/home defense backup.
The to be acquired S&W 44 magnum will be a hobby gun
and home defense backup as well.

After reading all the above posts, I will stick to purchasing
44 magnum 240 grain hollow point bullets and 44 special bullets.
Simple as that.
No need to blow away my wrist and elbow and shoot beyond my intended target.

 

[Dfish1247]

My 629 6.5" came with wood grips, one cylinder of pmc 180gr later, it had pachmayer rubber grips. The pmc is accurate in the 629 though.

Start off with 44 specials, then go up. But, for what you want, the specials will be more than adequate. I don't know where you live, but I doubt you're going to have grizzlies breaking into your home.

Be glad you didn't say, "I'm looking to buy a 329pd" you'd really have people telling you to stick to 44 special, that gun is rough at best with magnum ammo.

 

[jcelect]

My 686/357 magnum is a hobby gun/home defense backup.

Sir, you might want to reverse the rolls of your two guns! A revolver is the original "point and click" devise! In the middle of the night something awakens you from a sound sleep! You grab your firearm, if it's a auto you need to check if the clip is inserted, a round is chambered, the safety is off, and then "point and click"! A revolver, grab the gun, "point and click"! If it ain't loaded, its a short club!
jcelect