I am interested in a 44 SPL DA revolver to go with my NMBH Bisley Flattop(s). This would be for woods-walking and hunting, no big bears in Mississippi. Primarily "Tier 2" 44 SPL loads, or equivalent loads in 44 Mag cases. I am aware of the basic attributes of each gun. Both similar size and weight, both 5 shot. Just wondering if any of you have any personal insights to share, or things I may have overlooked.
Ruger GP100 44 SPL, 5" half-lugged barrel, blued, Lipsey's exclusive no longer in production: A 5" barrel is usually my first choice, I prefer the looks of blued, but the durability of SS. No longer available, would probably have to get into a bidding war with some collector on Gunbroker. $$. They don't come up that often that I've seen. I CAN spend the money, just not sure I WANT to spend the money. If they were commonly available, I would probably have one already. This gun was my first choice.
S&W 69: Similar size, weight, same capacity. 4.25" barrel. Capability to shoot full 44 Mag, which I am not interested in, esp in a midsize gun. Stainless. I can have one in 2 days for $800. When I saw that the Ruger might be hard to get, this one started looking attractive to me. I see online that alot of guys have the same idea as me (using it as a 44 SPL).
Thoughts?