Which 44 Mag?

**Hobbs4421** · June 27th, 2015, 07:19 PM

I've decided to get a 44 mag before this year's PA archery season starts. I haven't started my research yet, so I figured I'd come to you first for direction. I do like Smith & Wesson's M&P series, but as far as revolvers, I'm pretty inexperienced. At this point I'm looking at either Smith & Wesson or Ruger. The primary purpose for the gun will be self defense in the PA woods.

The largest animal I will encounter will be a black bear. I don't want anything with a real long barrel, since I will be walking long distance with it on my side, and in the event that I have to defend myself, I'd like to draw it as quickly as possible. I'm looking for something tough and durable, because I would prefer to shoot heavy loads from it.

What would you recommend?
What should I stay away from?
What has worked for you?
What kind of money should I expect to spend?

Thanks in advance for your input!

Isaac

**RUDY850** · June 27th, 2015, 07:22 PM

Ruger 5026 http://www.ruger.com/products/redhawk/images/5026.jpg

**mmi** · June 27th, 2015, 07:44 PM

Desert Eagle cool new colors . and ported models but you don't need them it kicks like a 45 acp in 44 mag . 8 round mags one in the pipe.

**hornady** · June 27th, 2015, 07:47 PM

My vote would be the Super Blackhawk; I have two Blackhawks one in 45LC and the 44 I have no complaints with either. I believe the SBH at Buds are going for about $650.00

**pennlineman** · June 27th, 2015, 07:50 PM

A plain old Ruger Redhawk.

**Hodgie** · June 27th, 2015, 07:57 PM

S&W Model 69 series it's small light and well built which fits for what your looking to use it for.
Good luck trying to find one though.

**Boondox** · June 27th, 2015, 07:58 PM

I've owned a lot of 44's , is was an addiction.
You say you are looking at Smith & Wesson or Ruger
What Rugers? the double or single actions?
I like packing Ruger singles but since you say , The primary purpose for the gun will be self defense in the PA woods.
That would mean a double action to me since if you study bear attacks you may notice sometimes you may not be able to slap leather until the bear is upon you at which time fingering a hammer back is extra work you won't be needing.
So a double action Smith or Ruger , I'd say Ruger. The Redhawk will pack easier than the super red.
Smith would work to but for a diet of heavy loads , I would favor the Ruger.
Unless you just love the Smith more.
For factory loads , the Federal 300gr CastCores is my pick.
Hehe , they ain't cheap................................
What to stay away from , I'd say the Speer 270gr soft point.
While on the surface that looks to be a good load , I find it is much too soft for what I'd want to accomplice if shooting a bear.
So for packing purpose as stated , it'd be the redhawk loaded with cast cores.
Costs? A lot. Stuff ain't cheap.
Find the best deal you can.

**louie** · June 27th, 2015, 08:17 PM

Ruger, hands down.
Your kids kids will thank you.

**Delkal** · June 27th, 2015, 08:29 PM

No real opinion on double action .44's but if you go single action it has to be a Blackhawk. Its has a very strong frame and if you reload you can push it a bit with the heavy cast bullets. Your not giving anything up going single action.........unless you think you can double tap a .44.

If you can carry it, I like the 7 1/2 inchers. You get a lot more velocity / power and with the long sight radius (usually) better accuracy.
5 1/2 inches will do but I would avoid anything shorter unless your trying to scare what ever your shooting at to death with a big orange ball of fire

**RebelRaider5** · June 27th, 2015, 08:33 PM

I've heard good things about the Taurus Raging Bull. This is what I would look for if I was getting a .44 Magnum. Well maybe a 1970s S&W model 29 if I had the money.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=491571819