Thinkin' about a .44. Advice?

[jaybet]

Hey guys... I've thought about getting a 44 for a long time, and next time I'm shopping it might be the way I go (unless I'm DISTRACTED by something else, of course!). What keeps sticking in my mind is a S&W model 29 variant that Bud's had for awhile...the "Bounty Hunter". It was a 6 round blued 44 mag with 3" barrel.

I'd like to get one that's big enough to absorb some of the recoil, but small enough to carry if I have the opportunity. 44 SP would be a nice practice and self defense round, and 44 mag would be good if I ever get to go on that fly fishing trip with my SIL- it would definitely deter the black bears.

So anyone have a recommendation for a nice 44? Or better yet...anyone want to sell me a nice one cheap?
While I'm at it in fact, throw in a case of ammo.

[fightingquaker13]

Gringo's Ruger Alaskan looked pretty sweet. Plus you could always beat someone to death with it.
FQ13

[1911 Junkie]

There is a nice S&W 629-4 .44 Mountain gun for sale at www.gunrunnerauctions.com

2 days left on the auction. Right now it is $540.

If it stays around there I was thinking of making a grab at it but funds prevent me. 

I've heard good things about gunrunner, easy to work with, no surprises.

[addict]

I have a 7 1/2 inch Super Redhawk and a 4 inch 629. Recoil in the Ruger is fine all day, but if you run a couple cylinders through the Smith, you are done with the full power loads. 3" 629? dont think I would shoot it very much. I am not terribly recoil sensative, but I do not enjoy getting beat up. YMMV but its something to think about...
Addict

[Hazcat]

I would not buy an S&W with the internal lock.  Other than that S&W is a fine gun.

Other options;

http://www.davidsonsinc.com/consumers/subsites/inven_product.asp?dealer_id=62832&item=2-440029TKRT&instock=all&manufact_combo=None&mod_ser_combo=None&category_combo=None&model=None&g_type=Revolver&act_type=&finish_type=None&calib_combo=44M&sight_class_combo=None&price_range=None&left_handed=&youth=&Offset_rec=0&num_rec=50&item_num=

http://www.davidsonsinc.com/consumers/subsites/inven_product.asp?dealer_id=62832&item=2-444029ULT&instock=all&manufact_combo=None&mod_ser_combo=None&category_combo=None&model=None&g_type=Revolver&act_type=&finish_type=None&calib_combo=44M&sight_class_combo=None&price_range=None&left_handed=&youth=&Offset_rec=0&num_rec=50&item_num=

[Sponsor]

[tombogan03884]

 Stay away from the new S&W's MB has mentioned on his podcasts about problems with the lock engaging on recoil.

[PegLeg45]

Can't say about the S&W guns, but the .44 is a hell of a round.

[mudman]

624  no dash no lock +1 Spl.

[Kid Shelleen]

I have a 7 1/2 inch Super Redhawk and a 4 inch 629. Recoil in the Ruger is fine all day, but if you run a couple cylinders through the Smith, you are done with the full power loads. 3" 629? dont think I would shoot it very much. I am not terribly recoil sensative, but I do not enjoy getting beat up. YMMV but its something to think about...
Addict

I also have an older 7 1/2 Super Redhawk and love it, but it's no secret that I'm a Ruger wheel gun fan. If you want a snubbie .44 Mag. I would not rule out the Alaskan.

[Green Mountain Gringo]

I also have an older 7 1/2 Super Redhawk and love it, but it's no secret that I'm a Ruger wheel gun fan. If you want a snubbie .44 Mag. I would not rule out the Alaskan.

You'd freakin' LOVE the Alaskan.  (GMG goes off to the corner to fondle his 41 ounces of wonderful steel).   Read that any way you want to.