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#10 on this list
Model 500 Performance Center
Smith & Wesson
The heaviest hitter available in a production revolver. Buy it only if you will practice with it.
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#1 on this list
Model 329PD (.44 Magnum)
Smith & Wesson
Scandium-alloy Airlite frame, 4.125-inch barrel, six rounds of .44 Magnum at about 26 ounces. The trail gun you actually carry.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Model 500 Performance Center | Model 329PD (.44 Magnum) |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .500 S&W Magnum | .44 Magnum / .44 S&W Special |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Barrel Length | Varies by model, typically 7.5" to 10.5" | 4.125 inches |
| Frame Size | X-Frame (Large) | — |
| Materials | Stainless Steel | — |
| Action | Single/Double Action | — |
| Weight (empty) | — | 25.2 ounces (approx.) |
| Frame Material | — | Scandium alloy |
| Cylinder Material | — | Titanium alloy |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Model 500 Performance Center
- Unparalleled stopping power in a handgun
- Robust, overbuilt construction for extreme loads
- Performance Center tuning enhances action and ergonomics
- Effective deterrent against large, dangerous game
- Excellent for handgun hunting of very large animals
- Extreme recoil and muzzle blast
- Very heavy and bulky, challenging to carry
- Significant practice required for proficiency
- Limited capacity (5 rounds)
- Expensive ammunition
Model 329PD (.44 Magnum)
- Extremely light for a .44 Magnum revolver
- Formidable stopping power for large predators
- Practical to carry all day in the backcountry
- Excellent build quality and reliability
- Significant recoil with full-power .44 Magnum loads
- Higher price point than many comparable revolvers
- Requires consistent practice to master
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