I have been considering getting a Smith and Wesson 29 for a while. The only thing that's stopping me from pulling the trigger on one is the fact it's in 44 magnum. I have shot 40s&w and 45 ACP with no problems, and love shooting 45 colt out of my Uberti cattleman. I know that you can just load specials but I'm curious how manageable the recoil is with just standard 44 magnum ammo.
I shot an Original Ruger Red Hawk for years in the last century. S&W Model 29 had a well earned reputation of having a nasty kick. Never really cared much for it after I tried one. And I'm no pantywaist, 5'10, 255lbs, size 15 ring finger, x-large hands from milking cows, goats, and the occasional horse to feed an abandoned foal. I did have to modify my RH, as I found the factory grips too big for my taste. So, I round butted it, and reshaped the factory wood grips. Later, when I started to reload, cost of .44 magnum ammo, at that time, was dear, I went with a hot .44 special load in a magnum case. Also, having shot Colt style cap and ball Dragoons and Walkers with full loads, as a kid, I knew how to ride the recoil. Many will tell you, that you have to take a two handed stance and lean into the recoil. I shoot one handed, and stand in such a way, that I give minimal exposure. My eyes are not what they once were, but using a bullseye target at 25 feet, I would aim for the numbers. My shooting partner, and I, were once picking numbers for each other. A man walked up and looked at our targets, laying on the table behind us. With a large grin, he made the comment, "you guys are shooting all over the place." My partner called out, "8 low." My shot, quickly made the number 8 lowest on the target disappeared. We switched positions, I called, "9 right." His shot hit the mark. Mr. Joker took a look at the targets on the table, the one hanging, then the two of us, and suddenly decided he was needed else where.
Moral of my story, go with what gets the job done, that works for you. Not something promoted in a motion picture. And always, be aware of your surroundings, aim small, miss small, and make your shot count.
Just my 2 pence, Feel free to call me a liar, just be sure your smiling when you do it.