I have shot a 44 revolver (think a 5 inch). I have never shot a 44 mag. I can't find a 44 J-frame to rent or try. I'm about three or fewer weeks from buying a small frame (J-frame S&W) light weight revolver of some type.
1) I was told that shooting a 44 special small frame was like shooting a 45 ACP. Does that sound right?
2) I was told the .357 Mag is far more brutal (out of a J-frame light weight) than a 44 special is. Does that sound right?
I don't believe S&W made a J frame in .44 caliber, as the .44 ammunition is too large in diameter to fit in a J frame cylinder with 5 shots. In looking on the S&W website I do see a .44 Special revolver in their "396 Night Guard" series, as shown below. It holds 5 rounds and has a scandium frame with 2.5 inch barrel:
Thanis,
I've never shot the gun mentioned but I have shot the .44 Special 5 shot Taurus which is a comparable gun.
The Taurus like the Smith, is lightweight.
Those guns are made to be carried alot and shot little. Its not bad for a couple of cylinders, but it gets to be a bit tedious if you shoot more than that. There just isnt a lot of weight there to absorb the recoil much.
In comparison with the .38/.357, I think either one of them will do the job if need be.
Me, personally, I like big holes and beleive that bigger is better. The main advantage to the .38/.357 is that the ammo is so much more available than the .44 Special, which can be very hard to find at times. Some Walmarts dont even know the .44 Special exists, but you can find .44 Mag there all day long.
You could look for the Smith Wesson 296. It was an airlite 44 special. The Arms Room
Go to the FEb. 24th entry, she does a great write up on it.
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