Reeder Custom Guns - 4" vs. 3" .44 Magnum

Any discernable difference between a 4" .44 magnum and the 3" version, other than the 1" difference in barrel length and a bit more recoil? I have a 4" Model 29 and don't know if a 3" is worth the cost just to get an inch shorter barrel. Maybe a bit easier to carry?? Would be used for backpacking/camping. 240-255 grain hard cast ammo.

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the minimum length that I like is 4 inches and I really prefer at least 5 to 6 inch barrels. My reason is that I can sight a longer barrel better than a short one. In the 3 inch I would shoot .44 spl vice magnum loads as I just can't handle the recoil very well. I have two Vaqueros with the 4 1/2 inch barrels and they are a bit much as well. I usually shoot .44 spls in them. I really don't think that one inch will make them any more portable than a 4 inch barrel. Just what you can handle and prefer......

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I've got one of the old Lew Horton model 29's with the 3'' barrel and round butt grip frame, it packs really well but I haven't shot it much really. I've always been a fan of the 4'' N-frame's there by far my favorite S&W's.

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for me. Congrats!

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It’s ok but with my hot 265 gr. FNGC it’s simply beastly! I don’t even want a full cylinder worth. That’s from someone who owns many other more powerful guns.

The 4” version is notably better. I saw a 3” like mine bring north of $2k lately! A good 4” is still half that.

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I have a Reeder modified Redhawk with a 4 inch barrel and a round butt. Tried the 3 inch in a model 29 but a rapid second shot just seemed easier with the Redhawk along with the longer sight picture.