You are spot on about the deer. Years ago when I lived in Ohio when I was a teenager I went hunting for years with family and friends but at 19 years old I got my first deer with a 1989 Chevy Beretta...
I totally agree, and love the .44 mag and its versatility! I also carry a Ruger Redhawk 2.75" ..44mag. Someone once said, "Carry the biggest and most powerful handgun that you are proficient and feel comfortable with"!
I live in PA too. I priced out getting a 20mm vulcan for the roof of my car. It cost several times what my car costs. I definitely dig the new 69. I have the 66-8 and it's a fine little pea shooter. It can take a deer, but it can't ask it if it's feeling lucky.
That’s the wonderful thing about the 44. Those who know have an available load for any situation like hunting, self defense, range use, etc. If you reload, you have even more options like the skeeter special load amongst many recipes to choose from
I'm a retired LEO and carry a Kimber45 for my go to church gun and a 3" S&W model 629 for Walmart trips. I hand load both and enjoy experimenting with different loads.
@@RBG-tr9ce Yes, the model 60 is chambered in .357 mag.. I know because I own one. When they first came out, they were chambered only in .38 special but, starting in 1996, S&W started making them in .357 mag..
I carried a 4" Smith 29 back in the day. Great gun. Recoil? Yeah it kicked. Duh! That's how you know your ammo works! I dealt with it. Practice. Never shot a Special in it. Favorite load was a 245 gr. Keith semi-wadcutter ahead of 9.8 grains of Unique in Magnum brass. Shoot through the same hole all day at 25 yards. Sonofabitch! I loved that gun. After several thousand rounds it got a bit shaky and loose so I sold it. Never got around to replacing it. Worst decision I ever made, aside from the first wife. Still wake up screaming from that nightmare! Now a 4" 29 is impossible to find without having to mortgage the house. Don't want a new 629 'cause of that blasted Hillary Hole. Screw that! No wait! Don't!! I was speaking figuratively. Hillary ain't got no hole anyway. I hear she has a ...No wait. That's "Mike" Obama. Anyway, 44 Maggie rules. In 1957 Gun Digest, a year after the 44M was introduced, Colonel Charles Askins was putting the new gun through its paces and wrote, "This 44 is a MAN'S gun. Word reaches me that some joes, probably with lace on their panties, are putting on gloves to shoot it. I shot the big 44 all afternoon and found the recoil nothing more than stimulating". 44 is still King!
The only reason to carry a 44 magnum is because they don't make a 66 magnum. I've been carrying a 9mm daily but am moving to a revolver and have been debating on 357 or 44 and you just made my mind up. So I'm going to get a 44. My dad had a 44 mag super redhawk and I loved shooting it. Good video brother 💪🇺🇸🍻
Most debates of personal defense firearms and calibers almost always take place with the assumption that the sole adversary one is likely to face is against human enemies. However, there are two types of personal defense: defense against humans and defense against big/dangerous game (hogs, deer, elk, buffalo, moose, coyotes, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain lions, or even aggressive dogs). Yes, the likelihood of ever having to use a firearm against any of these creatures is rare. However, a .44 S&W/.44 Mag revolver is probably the most versatile "one gun platform" against all of these creatures, and unfortunately, the topic of "versatility" or the discussion of a "one gun platform" is largely omitted from firearm discussions, too. Compared to semi-autos, revolvers are not without their disadvantages (e.g. have less ammo capacity, take longer to reload, are typically heavier and longer, less tolerant to abuse, generate more recoil - due to no slide operation - and are typically more expensive). The main arguments in favor of revolvers, however, are "firepower" and "versatility," where the latter point is not stressed enough. In my limited experience, it seems that most people who have to consider these two kinds of personal defense seem to always own at least two different gun platforms: one for defense against humans (e.g. .38 S&W, 9mm, .40 S&W, .44 S&W, .45 ACP), the other for dangerous game (10mm, .357 Mag, .41 Mag, .45 Colt, .44 Mag, .454 Casull, .460 S&W, .500 Mag), and almost always the big game firearm is used secondarily and only on occasion. Despite all of the different platforms of semi-autos, finding one that can serve the dual purposes of a human/big game defense is challenging and highly debatable, but those who favor semi-auto platforms typically try to buy two guns with similar platforms/manual of arms (e.g. 1911 in 9mm and 1911 in 10mm, or a Glock 17 and Glock 20), even though, no matter how similar, the draw, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control will never be the same for two different semi-autos of similar platforms with different calibers. And, a disadvantage of owning more than one firearm is that it undoubtedly leads to increases in 1) costs (e.g. buying two different firearms plus magazines, holsters, grips, accessories, equipment), 2) training (e.g. fundamentals of sights and trigger control, recoil control, learning different manual of arms, draws from holster/carry position, etc.), 3) maintenance (e.g. cleaning, parts, etc.), 4) storage (i.e. space for the firearms, gun safe, guns cases, accessories, and equipment alike), and the list goes on. The advantage of .44 S&W/.44 Mag revolver is that carrying a variety of cartridges in "speed" strips is easier (in concealability, storage, and weight) than having to constantly consider and choose between or carry two different gun platforms plus the respective spare magazines/ammunition before leaving one's home. The versatility of the revolver means that it requires less mental dexterity and foresight than owning two different gun platforms and having to plan one's day, to imagine the possible threats one might encounter, and then to choose the appropriate firearm based on that forecast, only to still have doubts about whether one's training or firearm choice are going to be adequate in the event a situation that requires the use of the firearm arises. Instead, one could load a revolver with .44 S&W when venturing to the city, or load with .44 Mag when exploring the backcountry, and an easy swap of the ammunition in the cylinder is all that is required to be prepared for different animal threats. Another advantage of owning a dual caliber revolver is that the same firearm can be adequate for different threats while also being the same platform, which means having the same draw, same grip, same sight alignment, and same trigger control while only having to adapt to change in recoil. For a person who is interested in reloading, the versatility and control one has over each cartridge load grows exponentially (as is true of reloading, in general), especially for .44 S&W/.44 Mag cartridges. These cartridges have a large variability and customization in key ballistics metrics (e.g. bullet weight, velocity, momentum, or energy) compared to most other calibers. Hotly loaded .44 S&W or lightly loaded .44 Mag are feasible. Yes, the same argument holds true of gun ownership applies to reloading: increased upfront costs in equipment and materials, time spent learning, and storage. However, the merits of reloading ammunition are 1) increased cartridge versatility and customization, 2) lower long term ammunition costs, and 3) increased self-reliance. I would rather buy one revolver in .44 S&W/.44 Mag, and the reloading equipment to load my own ammunition than spending the equivalent amount of money on two different gun platforms. If grizzly bears and moose are not likely threats, then a .38 S&W/.357 Mag is the next most versatile gun platform with a .40 S&W/10mm revolver coming in a close third. While .40 S&W tends to have better performance over .38 S&W, and 10 mm over .357 Mag, I would choose a .38 S&W/.357 Mag revolver over .40 S&W/10mm due to the many more available options of .38 S&W/.357 Mag revolvers over .40 S&W/10mm revolvers, and due to .40 S&W/10mm revolvers requiring moon clips, which I see as a potential failure point.
Im also from PA, unfortunately im from the cities in the lower east side of the state where crime is ramped (not from philadelphia however, but im 30 minutes from philly). So i have to think about the reality of possibly facing a crazed person or gangbanger in a shootout. Just In the last two years in my town two childhood friends of mine got shot by drug dealers (separate cases at seperate times), one unfortunately passed away and the other was on a wheel chair for a whole year in fear of never walking again, now of course they were hanging out with stupid crowds and thankfully i never followed their footsteps, but that reality along with the fact that just this year a young 17 year old was shot and killed in a street robbery makes me disagree with people when they say that getting into a shootout is unlikely in america. It really depends in what part of your state you live in, if you live in a city with a lot of poverty than you will need to be ready for a shootout if you are a gun owner. That being said i still have love and respect for six shooters and will soon buy a 357 mag revolver for carry in the spring and fall times where jackets can conceal them easier, and have been considering a 44 mag or 45 colt just for fun and freedom.
I carry a S&W 629-6 .44 Mag with a 3.5 inch barrel, for EDC. I carry every day, every where and I hide it with a sleeveless shirt. I also carry two speed loaders, and they are loaded with Black Talons. Where I live, large, predatory animals are a possible problem. I use the Black Talons, because they will not over-penetrate. So, yeah.
I have a 4.25” model 69 I usually carry it because it’s my backup while hunting and it’s easier than dragging around multiple sidearms during hunting season. Also the federal hydra shock is pretty great for edc.
I’m IN! Started carrying cuz I can and it’s not uncomfortable wearing shorts and a tshirt. Might try to upgrade the sights to something easier to pickup faster. Purchased for fun and dangerous things close. I’m doing Skeeter’s load for camp and will probably do a gold dot for town life.
I edc a 44 mag s&w 629... very versatile can use it in the city or in the woods. Sure you don't have 15 rounss but with a 44 mag all you need is 1 shot.
@@SlimCowboy i agree. But if u carry a 44. you DEFINETLY have to train a lot and also be physically able to handle it. So a weak girl like me i could never shoot a 44 without breaking my nose😂 but here in germany were the gun laws are literally the worst in the world, i will never have the opportunity to shoot one in the near future. But i would carry a gun if im old enaugh, amd if the laws would allow it. One year ago a guy from school got stabbed. He would still live if we would have had a firearm. And im also physically not really able to fight with a knife sp the pepperspray stays as very last defense, and that can suck if a strong wind blows against you, pr if the attacker wears a motorcycle helmet.
I had a 3” 629 for years but I never thought about conceal carrying it. Had a nice leather OWB holster for it but it was pretty heavy. The recoil on full power magnums was really hard to get back on target for follow up shots that’s probably the main reason I never carried it. But yeah 44mag is no joke! 👍🏻
I have a had a life long love affair with Magnum revolvers. Now, I only have two. A Super Redhawk with 7 1/2" bbl, and the Smith 69 44 with the 4 1/4" bbl. I am old and don't shoot big iron in the Smith, but it is what the 686 wishes it could be. I would keep the Smith over the Ruger. I have seriously considered carrying it, but have carried a Glock 19 for longer than I remember. These are simply superb revolvers.
I like your reasons , I am on the fence about carrying a 44 Mag Smith 329pd Air light. My self defense loads would be 44 Special, no need to have 1000 ft lbs loads for carrying. Nice video!
Consider also that in terms of power one .44 magnum is equal to about four 9mm rounds. A full cylinder is about equal to a full 9mm magazine plus a reload and more shots after.
I've never had the opportunity to shoot the 44 magnum but I agree with everything you said. If you replace 44 magnum with 357 magnum you describe me to a "T".
Makes total sense, you can carry .44 specials and still have a Higher power factor than any auto cartridge short of 10mm with Corbons or Underwood and other hotter factory loads. Big Bore Silver Revolvers have a psychological factor also against 2 legged foes too😂, most self defense engagements don't require a shot of its not a determined attacker. I just laid a 69 away myself, I normally carry something in 9mm but constantly find myself in the woods having to deal with large animals like when helping ppl track wounded Black Bears through Laurel Thickets, sometimes you belly crawl into a grouchy one😂
Love it. I bouce between a M69 2.75 or a 329PD. Use the speer gold dot short barrel 200gr load. Very soft shooting with perfect gel test results. 16" of penetration and .750" expansion. If that dosent work ive got a speedloader with full power 240gr hydra shoks. Nothing on this continent that won't kill.
@@SlimCowboy it carries beautifully, recoil is worse than a smith 500 mag with full power loads. If you can get past paying $1000 to get smacked in the palm with a hammer its a wonderful gun. Also, count on it going back to smith and wesson every 1000-1500 rounds to have the blast shield replaced. It cracks and falls off. They are always very impressed when you call them and tell them how many rounds you actually shot through the gun. 😂
Ben Garltic I know all about Smith and Wesson and having stuff replaced repaired sadly. I've heard the recoil on them is pretty harsh I hear a lot of people put the X frame recoil absorbing grip on them with all that being said I still want one pretty bad lol
No where close in power but I think in semi auto world 10mm is also a good everyday carry. With the right loads you get maximum protection. And is possible to carry 40 cal ammo in just about all 10mm pistols.
I carry a 4.2-inch barrel Redhawk right in my front pocket. No problem. I can hit anything I see and I can reload it pretty fast. The Glock-19 has been demoted to the ankle.
I’m in the market for a model 69 to carry as a bear gun in the western states. But for everyday carry, protection and defense maybe not. In the bar fight with one guy I need to put two rounds in, sure give me the 44 mag. Now in a church where I might have three guys who plan to shoot up the crowd, I’ll take my 9mm and the 31 rounds I carry. Also in a high stress situation data shows us well trained folks miss more than they hit. My 31 rounds trump your 10.
I love revolvera too, I carry an Taurus tracker .357 and in the summer unfortunately I have to carry something smaller so I carry a Ruger .327 federal.
I can't really tell from the video, but it does not look all that much bigger than the j frame. I always wanted to see how small one would be with the old style dog ear grips and a Tyler t grip adapter. I would couple it with a belly band, or something I can get the cylinder above the belt line, and tucked in really close to my body...maybe at the 1:30 to 2:00 position. Drawing and shooting would require some practice, but I bet it would be a great option for concealment for us tall slender gentlemen.
I like the "bar fight" analogy...well done. I wish there were more options for .45 Colt carry both in ammo and revolvers with say 4 inch. Has the mass of the .44 Mag, without the recoil. The model 69 approach as an alternative is definitely worth considering if you are carrying a J-frame which is 5 shots as well, going to L frame allows 6 or more rounds even magnum which is too much power, however with a .44 magnum even is special loads can get most likely more penetration without over penetration and as you pointed out it looks pretty convincing just like pulling out a 1911. "Deer repelent" LOL....Thanks for the video sir.
I really enjoyed your video. Im a big revolver fan also, but my .44 magnum has 6” barrel and although my favorite, I cannot carry it on my belt or concealed. Recently I got an idea to buy Smith model 629 w/3” barrel for conceal carry. However, die to the unpopularity of 44 mag for urban carry I can’t find gel penetration tests or if any they show sometimes big differences. What is your opinion on 240 gr XTP JHP. Or 200 gr JHP? I like Underwood ammo for my defensive rounds. They have 180 gr XTP and they (Unerwood )test in gel is 17”.w/17.5” barrel. TH-cam video showed the same round penetrated only 11” in gel ( 6” barrel). Then I asked about the 200 gr JHP and the 240 gr XTP ( which is losted only as a hunting round, nit defensive). The answer was 17.5” gel penetration for both rounds- the 200gr and the 240 XTP. Thats my confusion here, as I have mo much experience dealing with ammo. Can you please steer me in the right direction with any advice or experiences to chose the right 44 mag ammo for cc? Thanks, Val
I carry my smith wession combat magnum 44 mag 2.5 inch with hornady 300 gr xtp in my gel test i got 23 inch penetration and same damage for full 23 inch and .638 expansion
@@Omar-if1cu double tap 300 gr 44 mag i included a video link th-cam.com/video/PKMDUr285UU/w-d-xo.html But my favorite 44 mag for deer or below is barns 44 magnum i have good luck with those rounds
O4 HEMI when dealing with full power loads I would certainly agree with you but once you start looking at some of the self-defense loads and wadcutters they're not as crazy as you'd think they actually have pretty favorable ballistics
O4 HEMI realistically you probably be better served by the seven 357 magnum's but I think at that point it would come down to personal preference of power versus capacity
@@SlimCowboy isnt it a lovely time to live when everyone can have and carry their preferences. Im not smashing/judging on you or 44mag i love my model 29. Just wanted to throw some questions and get a conversation goin.
Should I ever decide to purchase a .44 magnum revolver, I'd go for the one with a 4" barrel. Even with a 2.5" or 3" inch barrel, carrying a .44 magnum revolver is still like carrying a brick around. So why not go for the 4" version instead?
I have carried a .45ACP since I was a teenager and I just turned 70 but I am thinking about buying a Ruger Super RedHawk Alaskan as I already have a Ruger Super RedHawk 7.5 " for a house gun to be loaded with Cor Bon 135 grain Glasers due to the rise in home invasion robbers.
As far as intemadtion size. I carry a bodyguard 380 all the time and somtimes only that gun. Aside from my 40 cal shield and my m9. Some might be more intimidating but i never intend to pull out my gun and not use it. Statically 380 9mm 40 and 45 have the same stoping power for individuals. The only exception was the 357. My next purchase is the trr8 performance center.
crushed terrapin I completely agree with only drawing your firearm in situations that warrant using it but there are times that once the gun is drawn the attacker(s) backs off/gives up at which point as the "good guy" we must show restraint an excellent example of that is the situation in Florida with the convenience store shooting that now is extremely controversial
Will the 44 magnum penetrate body armor? I'm thinking in a world that has bad people doing bad things sometimes they wear soft armor and a gun that's able to penetrate that would be a good carry option.
I EDC a .357 mag, but wish I went with 44 mag. My single reason is, I'm becoming more concerned about stopping someone in body armor. 44 has a chance of penetrating lower grade body armor and if not, the non-penetrating damage may be enough to stop them.
If you’re worried about people in body armor coming after you in your everyday life, you either are on the wrong side of things, or have powerful enemies. When it comes to defeating body armor, just keep a .308 in a gun safe for any kind of “shit hits the fan” scenario.
Semi wad cutter. I've never seen a 44 wad cutter. That doesn't mean it doesn't exist, but I have been reloading for 40 years and have never seen one. 265 gr.keith style semi wad cutter would be the most popular, with a gas check for high velocity.
So if I pull out my gun because somebody is advancing on me with a knife and the second I pull out the gun they drop the knife I’m still supposed to shoot them?????
9mm not gonna do anything against a deer? You're quite mistaken. I was very efficiently able to dispatch a Mule Deer hit by a car. I walked up and aimed for the back of it's head with a .380acp rd out of a little Sig P238. It worked flawlessly. And that's .380acp, not even full 9x19.
I don't think gun size matters at that point they see a gun and a barrel that should be enough, now i like revolvers and well i think what ever round you carry is good,aslong as it is reliable,it is much better than carrying nothing, plus in a fight where you take out your firearm it means you are gonna shoot not just show it, that would get you in some trouble now a days specially with everyone sueing, for any fkn reason.
Sooooooooo... Just how many bad guys have you shot in a bar???... Lol good stuff thanks for posting. PS. if you're going to download a 44 mag, just carry a .357... 'Nuff said!!!...
Slim Cowboy... Wondering about the height of that front sight. I love the idea, I'm just curious if it has dropped you POI dramatically. Great rig BTW!
Linda Rokowski I still like their product in general but their quality control has gone down drastically i've had several guns go back I did a series on it a little while back it's pretty much a love-hate relationship at this point
My #1 reason is why not. It's a Smith and it's a 44mag. Any questions 👍🇺🇸
Shootin' with Uncle Dan hell yeah
Too loud?
@@insomthegreat the are loud😂
Being able to hear is overrated
@@SlimCowboy What did you say? Speak up😂
You are spot on about the deer. Years ago when I lived in Ohio when I was a teenager I went hunting for years with family and friends but at 19 years old I got my first deer with a 1989 Chevy Beretta...
60.000 is a good caliber for deer, but they can take a while to die sometimes.
😂😂 I’m sorry I just saw an 89 Beretta smoke a deer in my head and i couldn’t stop laughing
Your a adult not a teen
@@dudeshahs4282at nineTEEN he's literally a TEENager no matter the social norms that say your an adult
We have bears where I live. Another reason I carry my .44.
Kheir112 yeah I would say that's a pretty good reason to carry 44 mag
I totally agree, and love the .44 mag and its versatility! I also carry a Ruger Redhawk 2.75" ..44mag. Someone once said, "Carry the biggest and most powerful handgun that you are proficient and feel comfortable with"!
Hows the recoil on that ruger?
I live in PA too. I priced out getting a 20mm vulcan for the roof of my car. It cost several times what my car costs. I definitely dig the new 69. I have the 66-8 and it's a fine little pea shooter. It can take a deer, but it can't ask it if it's feeling lucky.
That’s the wonderful thing about the 44. Those who know have an available load for any situation like hunting, self defense, range use, etc. If you reload, you have even more options like the skeeter special load amongst many recipes to choose from
I'm a retired LEO and carry a Kimber45 for my go to church gun and a 3" S&W model 629 for Walmart trips. I hand load both and enjoy experimenting with different loads.
Why not just carry a model 60 or other j-frame revolver chambered in .357 mag if you're going shopping at your local Walmart?
@@shikat2371 Model 60 is not a .357, a 629 is a .44 mag
@@RBG-tr9ce Yes, the model 60 is chambered in .357 mag.. I know because I own one. When they first came out, they were chambered only in .38 special but, starting in 1996, S&W started making them in .357 mag..
@@shikat2371 I learn something everyday
@@shikat2371 I had a model 60 but that was in 1980. Wish I still had it.
I carry a S&W 629-6 with a three inch barrel loaded with Black Talons as an EDC. 6 shots, no BS and with the Talons, they will not over-penetrate.
I carried a 4" Smith 29 back in the day. Great gun. Recoil? Yeah it kicked. Duh! That's how you know your ammo works! I dealt with it. Practice. Never shot a Special in it. Favorite load was a 245 gr. Keith semi-wadcutter ahead of 9.8 grains of Unique in Magnum brass. Shoot through the same hole all day at 25 yards.
Sonofabitch! I loved that gun. After several thousand rounds it got a bit shaky and loose so I sold it. Never got around to replacing it. Worst decision I ever made, aside from the first wife. Still wake up screaming from that nightmare!
Now a 4" 29 is impossible to find without having to mortgage the house.
Don't want a new 629 'cause of that blasted Hillary Hole. Screw that! No wait! Don't!! I was speaking figuratively. Hillary ain't got no hole anyway. I hear she has a ...No wait. That's "Mike" Obama.
Anyway, 44 Maggie rules. In 1957 Gun Digest, a year after the 44M was introduced, Colonel Charles Askins was putting the new gun through its paces and wrote, "This 44 is a MAN'S gun. Word reaches me that some joes, probably with lace on their panties, are putting on gloves to shoot it. I shot the big 44 all afternoon and found the recoil nothing more than stimulating".
44 is still King!
The only reason to carry a 44 magnum is because they don't make a 66 magnum. I've been carrying a 9mm daily but am moving to a revolver and have been debating on 357 or 44 and you just made my mind up. So I'm going to get a 44. My dad had a 44 mag super redhawk and I loved shooting it. Good video brother 💪🇺🇸🍻
freedom guns and liberty thanks glad I could help
An N frame .44 mag loaded with SWCHP .44 Special is a dead nuts potent carry package.
@@wehrewulf N frame is too heavy. Go with the L frame and your hips will thank you
Most debates of personal defense firearms and calibers almost always take place with the assumption that the sole adversary one is likely to face is against human enemies. However, there are two types of personal defense: defense against humans and defense against big/dangerous game (hogs, deer, elk, buffalo, moose, coyotes, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain lions, or even aggressive dogs). Yes, the likelihood of ever having to use a firearm against any of these creatures is rare. However, a .44 S&W/.44 Mag revolver is probably the most versatile "one gun platform" against all of these creatures, and unfortunately, the topic of "versatility" or the discussion of a "one gun platform" is largely omitted from firearm discussions, too. Compared to semi-autos, revolvers are not without their disadvantages (e.g. have less ammo capacity, take longer to reload, are typically heavier and longer, less tolerant to abuse, generate more recoil - due to no slide operation - and are typically more expensive). The main arguments in favor of revolvers, however, are "firepower" and "versatility," where the latter point is not stressed enough. In my limited experience, it seems that most people who have to consider these two kinds of personal defense seem to always own at least two different gun platforms: one for defense against humans (e.g. .38 S&W, 9mm, .40 S&W, .44 S&W, .45 ACP), the other for dangerous game (10mm, .357 Mag, .41 Mag, .45 Colt, .44 Mag, .454 Casull, .460 S&W, .500 Mag), and almost always the big game firearm is used secondarily and only on occasion. Despite all of the different platforms of semi-autos, finding one that can serve the dual purposes of a human/big game defense is challenging and highly debatable, but those who favor semi-auto platforms typically try to buy two guns with similar platforms/manual of arms (e.g. 1911 in 9mm and 1911 in 10mm, or a Glock 17 and Glock 20), even though, no matter how similar, the draw, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control will never be the same for two different semi-autos of similar platforms with different calibers. And, a disadvantage of owning more than one firearm is that it undoubtedly leads to increases in 1) costs (e.g. buying two different firearms plus magazines, holsters, grips, accessories, equipment), 2) training (e.g. fundamentals of sights and trigger control, recoil control, learning different manual of arms, draws from holster/carry position, etc.), 3) maintenance (e.g. cleaning, parts, etc.), 4) storage (i.e. space for the firearms, gun safe, guns cases, accessories, and equipment alike), and the list goes on.
The advantage of .44 S&W/.44 Mag revolver is that carrying a variety of cartridges in "speed" strips is easier (in concealability, storage, and weight) than having to constantly consider and choose between or carry two different gun platforms plus the respective spare magazines/ammunition before leaving one's home. The versatility of the revolver means that it requires less mental dexterity and foresight than owning two different gun platforms and having to plan one's day, to imagine the possible threats one might encounter, and then to choose the appropriate firearm based on that forecast, only to still have doubts about whether one's training or firearm choice are going to be adequate in the event a situation that requires the use of the firearm arises. Instead, one could load a revolver with .44 S&W when venturing to the city, or load with .44 Mag when exploring the backcountry, and an easy swap of the ammunition in the cylinder is all that is required to be prepared for different animal threats. Another advantage of owning a dual caliber revolver is that the same firearm can be adequate for different threats while also being the same platform, which means having the same draw, same grip, same sight alignment, and same trigger control while only having to adapt to change in recoil. For a person who is interested in reloading, the versatility and control one has over each cartridge load grows exponentially (as is true of reloading, in general), especially for .44 S&W/.44 Mag cartridges. These cartridges have a large variability and customization in key ballistics metrics (e.g. bullet weight, velocity, momentum, or energy) compared to most other calibers. Hotly loaded .44 S&W or lightly loaded .44 Mag are feasible. Yes, the same argument holds true of gun ownership applies to reloading: increased upfront costs in equipment and materials, time spent learning, and storage. However, the merits of reloading ammunition are 1) increased cartridge versatility and customization, 2) lower long term ammunition costs, and 3) increased self-reliance. I would rather buy one revolver in .44 S&W/.44 Mag, and the reloading equipment to load my own ammunition than spending the equivalent amount of money on two different gun platforms. If grizzly bears and moose are not likely threats, then a .38 S&W/.357 Mag is the next most versatile gun platform with a .40 S&W/10mm revolver coming in a close third. While .40 S&W tends to have better performance over .38 S&W, and 10 mm over .357 Mag, I would choose a .38 S&W/.357 Mag revolver over .40 S&W/10mm due to the many more available options of .38 S&W/.357 Mag revolvers over .40 S&W/10mm revolvers, and due to .40 S&W/10mm revolvers requiring moon clips, which I see as a potential failure point.
Well said! Thanks for sharing!
Man that was a novel , well done! Haha
Im also from PA, unfortunately im from the cities in the lower east side of the state where crime is ramped (not from philadelphia however, but im 30 minutes from philly). So i have to think about the reality of possibly facing a crazed person or gangbanger in a shootout. Just In the last two years in my town two childhood friends of mine got shot by drug dealers (separate cases at seperate times), one unfortunately passed away and the other was on a wheel chair for a whole year in fear of never walking again, now of course they were hanging out with stupid crowds and thankfully i never followed their footsteps, but that reality along with the fact that just this year a young 17 year old was shot and killed in a street robbery makes me disagree with people when they say that getting into a shootout is unlikely in america. It really depends in what part of your state you live in, if you live in a city with a lot of poverty than you will need to be ready for a shootout if you are a gun owner. That being said i still have love and respect for six shooters and will soon buy a 357 mag revolver for carry in the spring and fall times where jackets can conceal them easier, and have been considering a 44 mag or 45 colt just for fun and freedom.
I carry a S&W 629-6 .44 Mag with a 3.5 inch barrel, for EDC. I carry every day, every where and I hide it with a sleeveless shirt. I also carry two speed loaders, and they are loaded with Black Talons. Where I live, large, predatory animals are a possible problem. I use the Black Talons, because they will not over-penetrate. So, yeah.
Thank you for this, esp the lighter caliber. 44 special. I'm at 357 but the bigger revolver round is nicer.
The 629 is my very first handgun I purchased in 1982. I like your choice.
Vanessa Kitty that's a very nice first handgun
I have a 4.25” model 69 I usually carry it because it’s my backup while hunting and it’s easier than dragging around multiple sidearms during hunting season. Also the federal hydra shock is pretty great for edc.
👍Better to have too much than not enough!
I’m IN! Started carrying cuz I can and it’s not uncomfortable wearing shorts and a tshirt. Might try to upgrade the sights to something easier to pickup faster. Purchased for fun and dangerous things close. I’m doing Skeeter’s load for camp and will probably do a gold dot for town life.
Reason # 6: You prefer to end the threat from 3 rooms over
Yes
Superb reasoning & possible to still find ammo and reloads. Thank you for posting this.
I edc a 44 mag s&w 629... very versatile can use it in the city or in the woods. Sure you don't have 15 rounss but with a 44 mag all you need is 1 shot.
NYPrepper yup
If you have one attacker. If you have more, you really need to hit every round
The odds of the second attacker sticking around after the first guy just ate a 240 grain slug are so low I’m willing to take that risk
@@SlimCowboy i agree. But if u carry a 44. you DEFINETLY have to train a lot and also be physically able to handle it. So a weak girl like me i could never shoot a 44 without breaking my nose😂 but here in germany were the gun laws are literally the worst in the world, i will never have the opportunity to shoot one in the near future. But i would carry a gun if im old enaugh, amd if the laws would allow it. One year ago a guy from school got stabbed. He would still live if we would have had a firearm. And im also physically not really able to fight with a knife sp the pepperspray stays as very last defense, and that can suck if a strong wind blows against you, pr if the attacker wears a motorcycle helmet.
I carry mine in case of wolfweres.
Amen brother. Don't forget about vampires.
I had a 3” 629 for years but I never thought about conceal carrying it. Had a nice leather OWB holster for it but it was pretty heavy. The recoil on full power magnums was really hard to get back on target for follow up shots that’s probably the main reason I never carried it. But yeah 44mag is no joke! 👍🏻
That 69 though definitely looks carryable! 👍🏻
I carry the same gun as a back up gun . It’s a do all gun a out the animal stoppers in the 44 and carry 158 grain in my 357 as primary .
I have the 329 nightguard that I CC sometimes. Low end 44 mag out of a snub will simply work very well.
I have a had a life long love affair with Magnum revolvers. Now, I only have two. A Super Redhawk with 7 1/2" bbl, and the Smith 69 44 with the 4 1/4" bbl. I am old and don't shoot big iron in the Smith, but it is what the 686 wishes it could be. I would keep the Smith over the Ruger. I have seriously considered carrying it, but have carried a Glock 19 for longer than I remember. These are simply superb revolvers.
Great video. I open carried my super redhawk for E2A 7.5 inch barrel. I could totally see EDC a model 69.
I like your reasons , I am on the fence about carrying a 44 Mag Smith 329pd Air light. My self defense loads would be 44 Special, no need to have 1000 ft lbs loads for carrying. Nice video!
11:55 😂 “deer repellent” 🤣👍 You, sir, get my follow!😂
“ WELL DO YOU”.?😂
Great round analogy .. Bar fight 🌩😄
Consider also that in terms of power one .44 magnum is equal to about four 9mm rounds. A full cylinder is about equal to a full 9mm magazine plus a reload and more shots after.
Just carry two 44mag revolver
@@dajr9018 Or keep a full cylinder with two speed loaders.
I've never had the opportunity to shoot the 44 magnum but I agree with everything you said. If you replace 44 magnum with 357 magnum you describe me to a "T".
Mike Davis 357 magnum is definitely a favorite of mine if you like 357 you'll definitely like 44 if you get to shoot it some day
Makes total sense, you can carry .44 specials and still have a Higher power factor than any auto cartridge short of 10mm with Corbons or Underwood and other hotter factory loads. Big Bore Silver Revolvers have a psychological factor also against 2 legged foes too😂, most self defense engagements don't require a shot of its not a determined attacker. I just laid a 69 away myself, I normally carry something in 9mm but constantly find myself in the woods having to deal with large animals like when helping ppl track wounded Black Bears through Laurel Thickets, sometimes you belly crawl into a grouchy one😂
Your are making me want to go out and get me a .44💪🏻🇵🇷👊🏻
Love it. I bouce between a M69 2.75 or a 329PD. Use the speer gold dot short barrel 200gr load. Very soft shooting with perfect gel test results. 16" of penetration and .750" expansion. If that dosent work ive got a speedloader with full power 240gr hydra shoks. Nothing on this continent that won't kill.
Ben Garltic very nice, i’ve been thinking to getting one of them 329 pd
@@SlimCowboy it carries beautifully, recoil is worse than a smith 500 mag with full power loads. If you can get past paying $1000 to get smacked in the palm with a hammer its a wonderful gun. Also, count on it going back to smith and wesson every 1000-1500 rounds to have the blast shield replaced. It cracks and falls off. They are always very impressed when you call them and tell them how many rounds you actually shot through the gun. 😂
Ben Garltic I know all about Smith and Wesson and having stuff replaced repaired sadly. I've heard the recoil on them is pretty harsh I hear a lot of people put the X frame recoil absorbing grip on them with all that being said I still want one pretty bad lol
No where close in power but I think in semi auto world 10mm is also a good everyday carry. With the right loads you get maximum protection. And is possible to carry 40 cal ammo in just about all 10mm pistols.
Love 44 mag I make my own 200 gr semi wad cutter 13 grs of imr4227 1000 or so fps
I carry a 4.2-inch barrel Redhawk right in my front pocket. No problem. I can hit anything I see and I can reload it pretty fast. The Glock-19 has been demoted to the ankle.
Lmao you must a giant man.
I’m in the market for a model 69 to carry as a bear gun in the western states. But for everyday carry, protection and defense maybe not. In the bar fight with one guy I need to put two rounds in, sure give me the 44 mag. Now in a church where I might have three guys who plan to shoot up the crowd, I’ll take my 9mm and the 31 rounds I carry. Also in a high stress situation data shows us well trained folks miss more than they hit. My 31 rounds trump your 10.
Lmao I carry my rugar Redhawk 44 as my main edc while my xd 45goes under my pillow personal preference
I love revolvera too, I carry an Taurus tracker .357 and in the summer unfortunately I have to carry something smaller so I carry a Ruger .327 federal.
I can't really tell from the video, but it does not look all that much bigger than the j frame. I always wanted to see how small one would be with the old style dog ear grips and a Tyler t grip adapter. I would couple it with a belly band, or something I can get the cylinder above the belt line, and tucked in really close to my body...maybe at the 1:30 to 2:00 position. Drawing and shooting would require some practice, but I bet it would be a great option for concealment for us tall slender gentlemen.
44 mag.
For those who know.
😎
Your a man after my own heart .
You're
I like the "bar fight" analogy...well done. I wish there were more options for .45 Colt carry both in ammo and revolvers with say 4 inch. Has the mass of the .44 Mag, without the recoil. The model 69 approach as an alternative is definitely worth considering if you are carrying a J-frame which is 5 shots as well, going to L frame allows 6 or more rounds even magnum which is too much power, however with a .44 magnum even is special loads can get most likely more penetration without over penetration and as you pointed out it looks pretty convincing just like pulling out a 1911. "Deer repelent" LOL....Thanks for the video sir.
I really enjoyed your video. Im a big revolver fan also, but my .44 magnum has 6” barrel and although my favorite, I cannot carry it on my belt or concealed. Recently I got an idea to buy Smith model 629 w/3” barrel for conceal carry. However, die to the unpopularity of 44 mag for urban carry I can’t find gel penetration tests or if any they show sometimes big differences. What is your opinion on 240 gr XTP JHP. Or 200 gr JHP? I like Underwood ammo for my defensive rounds. They have 180 gr XTP and they (Unerwood )test in gel is 17”.w/17.5” barrel. TH-cam video showed the same round penetrated only 11” in gel ( 6” barrel). Then I asked about the 200 gr JHP and the 240 gr XTP ( which is losted only as a hunting round, nit defensive). The answer was 17.5” gel penetration for both rounds- the 200gr and the 240 XTP. Thats my confusion here, as I have mo much experience dealing with ammo. Can you please steer me in the right direction with any advice or experiences to chose the right 44 mag ammo for cc? Thanks,
Val
The Robot is from Star Wars IG88. Your welcome.
My rugger super blackhawk with a 10 1/2 inch barrel no kick like the 4 inch 44 mag the little 44 mag hurts my hand like nothing i have ever shot
I'm not so sure id wanna get into a bar fight with ither one, but see your point
Can’t leave the house without my Big Iron😊
I carry my smith wession combat magnum 44 mag 2.5 inch with hornady 300 gr xtp in my gel test i got 23 inch penetration and same damage for full 23 inch and .638 expansion
black rain nice, very nice
You know of any 44 mag ammo that expands consistently to about 0.70 around there?? Im hoping there is some
@@Omar-if1cu double tap 300 gr 44 mag i included a video link th-cam.com/video/PKMDUr285UU/w-d-xo.html
But my favorite 44 mag for deer or below is barns 44 magnum i have good luck with those rounds
black rain wow, thank you so much just looked up the rounds and they perform amazing.
@@Omar-if1cu your welcome
One shot , one hellofaloudbang 😆❤
👍
Looks like Robbie the robot from forbidden planet.
like the GP 100 44 special as well
Im not one to typically worry about over penetration but i think 44 mag is pushing the boundaries for me personally.
O4 HEMI when dealing with full power loads I would certainly agree with you but once you start looking at some of the self-defense loads and wadcutters they're not as crazy as you'd think they actually have pretty favorable ballistics
@@SlimCowboy ok are the softer 44s better than 7 357mags in the same size revolver?
O4 HEMI realistically you probably be better served by the seven 357 magnum's but I think at that point it would come down to personal preference of power versus capacity
@@SlimCowboy isnt it a lovely time to live when everyone can have and carry their preferences. Im not smashing/judging on you or 44mag i love my model 29. Just wanted to throw some questions and get a conversation goin.
O4 HEMI civil conversation is always a good thing being able to debate and compare is how innovation happens
Should I ever decide to purchase a .44 magnum revolver, I'd go for the one with a 4" barrel. Even with a 2.5" or 3" inch barrel, carrying a .44 magnum revolver is still like carrying a brick around. So why not go for the 4" version instead?
I have carried a .45ACP since I was a teenager and I just turned 70 but I am thinking about buying a Ruger Super RedHawk Alaskan as I already have a Ruger Super RedHawk 7.5 " for a house gun to be loaded with Cor Bon 135 grain Glasers due to the rise in home invasion robbers.
Where did you find those grips?
Off a talo edition gun
I would EDC a 44 mag any day. Just can't find one in CC size lately.
My number one reason to carry a .44 mag is collateral damage
Right ammo won't cause that
As far as intemadtion size. I carry a bodyguard 380 all the time and somtimes only that gun. Aside from my 40 cal shield and my m9. Some might be more intimidating but i never intend to pull out my gun and not use it. Statically 380 9mm 40 and 45 have the same stoping power for individuals. The only exception was the 357. My next purchase is the trr8 performance center.
crushed terrapin I completely agree with only drawing your firearm in situations that warrant using it but there are times that once the gun is drawn the attacker(s) backs off/gives up at which point as the "good guy" we must show restraint an excellent example of that is the situation in Florida with the convenience store shooting that now is extremely controversial
Intimidation is real, and it can save lives. Someone very close to me pulled his pistol in a critical situation, and it ended up preventing a tragedy.
U just want to say “ do you feel lucky punk”??.😂😂😂
I edc my 686 plus in 3 inch ..though I do want a .44 mag as well ..
Will the 44 magnum penetrate body armor? I'm thinking in a world that has bad people doing bad things sometimes they wear soft armor and a gun that's able to penetrate that would be a good carry option.
Depends on the class of armor and bullet, but either way it has enough muzzle energy to break ribs under the armor.
I push 230gr 45ACP at 1200fps from a 4" pocket pistol. I love my 44s, but the 45 is also a monster properly loaded
That's not a 45acp. That's a 45 automag.
I EDC a .357 mag, but wish I went with 44 mag. My single reason is, I'm becoming more concerned about stopping someone in body armor. 44 has a chance of penetrating lower grade body armor and if not, the non-penetrating damage may be enough to stop them.
If you’re worried about people in body armor coming after you in your everyday life, you either are on the wrong side of things, or have powerful enemies. When it comes to defeating body armor, just keep a .308 in a gun safe for any kind of “shit hits the fan” scenario.
The guy who did the Buffalo shooting yesterday was wearing body armor… seems like a legit concern for op to have
Do you ever ccw this still?
I live in hog and bear country. Plus, I prefer a large caliber revolver for personal defense.
That’s reason why Im getting a 44 magnum
Did you get it yet? How you like it?
@@infamousnova I’m getting there just need to save some money
@@brutalstuff1653 Which one are you looking at getting?
I conceal carry a Smith and Wesson 500 Magnum
Semi wad cutter. I've never seen a 44 wad cutter. That doesn't mean it doesn't exist, but I have been reloading for 40 years and have never seen one. 265 gr.keith style semi wad cutter would be the most popular, with a gas check for high velocity.
Underwood 200 grain Full wadcutter
@@SlimCowboy antipersonal right?
Underwood buffloa bore and magpull all make wadcutters you can also get the molds and reload your own
Rimrock makes 200 gr wadcutters
IG88, is the action figure. Love 44 mag
Rugged Reviews right on
I understand what your saying with size of the gun. If your pulling it out your using it. Otherwise it's brandishing.
So if I pull out my gun because somebody is advancing on me with a knife and the second I pull out the gun they drop the knife I’m still supposed to shoot them?????
Where’d you get the grip I have the same gun I use it as my edc
9mm not gonna do anything against a deer? You're quite mistaken. I was very efficiently able to dispatch a Mule Deer hit by a car. I walked up and aimed for the back of it's head with a .380acp rd out of a little Sig P238. It worked flawlessly. And that's .380acp, not even full 9x19.
Thanks for sharing
44 Mag conceal and carry 165 grain 44 special Hornady Critical Defense do you believe this is good
makes sense to me....kinda.
I carry L frame 69 snub nose 44 mag one shot stopping power
like it there's not much that 44 wont stop near or far if you can shoot!
I don't think gun size matters at that point they see a gun and a barrel that should be enough, now i like revolvers and well i think what ever round you carry is good,aslong as it is reliable,it is much better than carrying nothing, plus in a fight where you take out your firearm it means you are gonna shoot not just show it, that would get you in some trouble now a days specially with everyone sueing, for any fkn reason.
Sooooooooo... Just how many bad guys have you shot in a bar???... Lol good stuff thanks for posting. PS. if you're going to download a 44 mag, just carry a .357... 'Nuff said!!!...
Let’s go Brandon
Slim Cowboy... Wondering about the height of that front sight. I love the idea, I'm just curious if it has dropped you POI dramatically.
Great rig BTW!
2 Crow luckily it's the same height as the stock front sight so it doesn't really change point of aim
I shoot full 44 mag loads myself I also have a smith 44 special just my opinion
Great video!
in New York any pistol with more than 7 rounds in it is illegal
No, it’s 10rds in a 10rd magazine. That was overturned years ago.
Why not a 686 , 7shot, 2,5 inch
Great gun and caliber
That’s j frame must have some recoil
cyberman from dr who?
Good point
❤❤❤
Smith and Wesson is garbage... The last gun I purchased new had to go back to the factory 3 times because it was spitting lead and seizing up... 617-4
Linda Rokowski I still like their product in general but their quality control has gone down drastically i've had several guns go back I did a series on it a little while back it's pretty much a love-hate relationship at this point
The 69 is for the first five rounds delivered. From your pocket holster you then draw your J-frame and send five rounds of 38 Plus P down range.
That is a beauty 👍 🇺🇸
Shootin' with Uncle Dan thanks
9:00 - If you can't get'r done in 5 rounds, yer in big trouble anyhoo.
Unlike the big because you might run into a 300lbs City Zombie😅
Love my 69 but it's heavy. Prefer my hellcat to carry.
.40 in short distance
IG-88 from Star Wars