Sure these guns may be more expensive. But compare the ballistics and you'll see there is no comparison. You can buy a 500 for $300 more than the gun in the original post.Also it sounds too me like this guy buys his guns for the long run. The original poster wants a pistol that can shoot 50 yards, pack a great punch, and be able to use as a defense against bears and Mt. Lions. In my opinion (Just my opinion of course), if something was looking at me that I knew could eat me for lunch I'd like to have the biggest darn thing I can shoot (A show stopper). And trust me if you can shoot the 44 you can shoot the 500 (They're not that bad). Weshot a 1.5 inch group at 37 yards with the 500, so I'm very confident you could shoot it beyond the required 50 yards. I've seen several hunting shows with guys carrying the Smith 500 with the 8 3/8 barrel. Find someone that has the S&W pistols and give them a try, andcompare the ballistics.

I'll take the S&W.