RE: S&W 629 44 mag.
IMO the S&W is a far superior product. I have been flamed for saying this before. But I firmly believe it. The S&W will definitely outshoot the Ruger, and definitely has a better trigger. The Ruger will make a better club(I am gonna get it for that one). I like the porting-just make sure you wear your muffs. I have never had a problem with fouling, but I keep the ports cleaned. Try Pipe cleaner's(smoking pipe's). Tom.
P.S.: The clubbing is actually not a joke. The reason S&W went with theheavy barrel and underlug was when police officer's hit a suspect with their pistol(instead of shooting them), the S&W barrels could bend. Sounds silly, but it is true.