Whenever you carry a weapon as a back up, secondary, or protection I find that ease of carry becomes a main issue. I have owned a lot of pistols and revolvers over the years that I wanted to carry for these reasons. But it always seemed like I left them behind for one reason or another. Then one day at a gun store I picked up one of the S&W 329 PD's. I could not believe how light, and thin the revolver was. I bought the revolver on the spot. I figured it would have a good bit of recoil because of how light it was. I casted a 240 grain Lyman bullet and put enough 2400 in the case to yield a good 44 Special load(about 900 fps). I could not believe how well the 329PD shot. I can hit bricks at 50 yards with no problem. And this is off handed, or in a hunting condition.

Now I carry this revolver everywhere. It is so light, and compact(for a 44 magnum) that you do not even know it is there. I call this "Carryability". I never leave this revolver behind. And I know the load I shoot is more than adequate.

If I were you I would look at a Titanium S&W in 44 magnum, and load down your ammo. Practice with it, and I am sure you will like it. I sure do. If you do not reload then just buy some 44 Special loads. Tom.