I recently got a S&W 296, an alloy L-framed titainium cylindered 44 spl. You know, it does kick, but not as bad as you'd think. I had been firing mostly 9mm lately, so the initial contrast was all the greater, but this pistol feels to me like firing a heavy 158 gr 357 mag load in a 2.5" mod 19 or 66, and I'm throwing a 200 gr JHP. I do NOT think I'd like to try a 44 mag in this type of pistol, but in 44 spl, it's a keeper. JMHO.
------------------
With my shield or on it...