When I hike in bear or lion country (have both here) I usually take a 4 5/8 Ruger .44 mag. Blackhawk or a 5 1/2" Ruger Bisley, both loaded with stiff 250/255 gr. hard cast Keith style semi-wadcutters. maybe one of these days I'll come across an S&W Mountain gun in .44 mag. I think I'd like the lighter weight.
I'd want one early enough that is didn't have that stupid lock system.
Paul B.