ouch my S&W 44 mag hurts
- Thread starter rhartwell
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bwsmith2850
Member
The recoil means that the 'felon repellent' (or bear repellent) is going out the other end really hard.
Seriously now, Good grips help a lot. I have rubber grips that enclose the backstrap on my magnums that really help. Smith, Houge, Ahrends & others make big wood target grips that help spread the recoil over more of your hand. I don't feel a lot more recoil with good target grips than with the rubber.
I find that having both arms straight (Isosceles stance) helps rather than the semi wever with one arm bent helps absorb the punch too. Good grips, good stance all help but nothing is going to make the recoil go away. It's a .44 Magnum. You'll always know you're shooting somthng big but it is managable.
Seriously now, Good grips help a lot. I have rubber grips that enclose the backstrap on my magnums that really help. Smith, Houge, Ahrends & others make big wood target grips that help spread the recoil over more of your hand. I don't feel a lot more recoil with good target grips than with the rubber.
I find that having both arms straight (Isosceles stance) helps rather than the semi wever with one arm bent helps absorb the punch too. Good grips, good stance all help but nothing is going to make the recoil go away. It's a .44 Magnum. You'll always know you're shooting somthng big but it is managable.
DoesItMatter
Member
+1 for good grips and having a good grip on the gun
+1 for reloading, I'm a big guy and I could shoot a box of 50 retail loads
no problem, but will probably feel it later or next day.
Reloading will allow you to make a mid-range between 44 special and 44 mag
Plus, 44 mag is so darn easy to load, straight walled case, big, and
WAY cheaper than buying retail rounds anyway.
Save the retail for carry loads, plinking is much cheaper with the reloads
and MUCH more pleasant on the hands/wrist.
+1 for reloading, I'm a big guy and I could shoot a box of 50 retail loads
no problem, but will probably feel it later or next day.
Reloading will allow you to make a mid-range between 44 special and 44 mag
Plus, 44 mag is so darn easy to load, straight walled case, big, and
WAY cheaper than buying retail rounds anyway.
Save the retail for carry loads, plinking is much cheaper with the reloads
and MUCH more pleasant on the hands/wrist.
woad_yurt
Member
Try a Pachmayr Decelerator grip. I have a Redhawk and the Decelerator grip makes it quite manageable with 300 gr Double Tap moose-killers. That grip made a big difference.
GP100man
Member
I learned qwik to roll with it instead of trying to control it , recoil must happen !!!
If stiff armin the grip & stance try bending ya elbows & standin more in a natual relaxed stanced but still controllin the revolver with ya hands.
This is why the Big Boomers are usually Heavy & the 29 is 1 of the liter 1s.
Good to carry , not fun to shoot!!!
If a grip & stance is`nt found down loadin your ammo is `bout the last choice ya got & don`t worry `bout it ,not many people go "plinkin" with full house 44mag loads either!!!
If stiff armin the grip & stance try bending ya elbows & standin more in a natual relaxed stanced but still controllin the revolver with ya hands.
This is why the Big Boomers are usually Heavy & the 29 is 1 of the liter 1s.
Good to carry , not fun to shoot!!!
If a grip & stance is`nt found down loadin your ammo is `bout the last choice ya got & don`t worry `bout it ,not many people go "plinkin" with full house 44mag loads either!!!
buck460XVR
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- Feb 6, 2007
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- 10,079
sorry, but I have to disagree. I have the X-frame grips in my N-Frame M629 and they work very well. They are the exact same grip that is on my PC .460 X-Frame. They are the black ones tho....I don't care for the yellow. I also have them on my 686s.....not because it needs them, but to keep my grip profile the same as the other two. If you go to the S&W website you will see that even the yellow ones will fit N-Frames as long as they have the rounded butt.
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Deanimator
Member
Winchester White Box is the most powerful .44 Magnum ammunition I've ever fired. In a 6" 29-2 with Pachmayrs, it's painful. In a 4" 29-2 with similar Pachmayrs, it's simply brutal. Yet, that's the ammunition I use in the 6" gun when I carry it for hunting (haven't gotten anything yet). I have no doubt that it will kill a deer... or a BMP-3.
I shoot almost nothing but .44 Specials in my .44 Magnums, especially the 4" 29-2. With reasonable .44 Specials (handloads or commercial self-defense loads), the 4" gun is pleasant to shoot. I could shoot it all day.
I shoot almost nothing but .44 Specials in my .44 Magnums, especially the 4" 29-2. With reasonable .44 Specials (handloads or commercial self-defense loads), the 4" gun is pleasant to shoot. I could shoot it all day.
charlie505
Member
- Joined
- Jun 22, 2007
- Messages
- 77
I have a S&W629 - 6inch BBL
I use specials 90% of the time and magnums when walking the woods and hunting.
I have Pacymar grips that surround the back strap. After a few mag rounds my hand does hurt. With the factory wood grips mu hand hurt after the first round - a good set of grips does help.
I use specials 90% of the time and magnums when walking the woods and hunting.
I have Pacymar grips that surround the back strap. After a few mag rounds my hand does hurt. With the factory wood grips mu hand hurt after the first round - a good set of grips does help.
pageophile
Member
- Joined
- Sep 14, 2008
- Messages
- 80
For "plinking" I use 9 grains of Unique and a hard cast 240 grain projectile. It's above a 44 Special but below full house 44 Mag loads. Tons of fun and cheap to boot.
When taking buddies to the range I let them fire off the 44Mag with these loads and they seem to do really well.
After that some opt for the full house loads, well let's just say it separates the men from the boys pretty quick
When taking buddies to the range I let them fire off the 44Mag with these loads and they seem to do really well.
After that some opt for the full house loads, well let's just say it separates the men from the boys pretty quick
Make SURE that the gun is aligned with your forearm bones! If you are "reaching around" to get enough finger on the trigger, the base joint of your thumb is going to take a POUNDING. Your height of 5-06 makes me think this might be the case, unless you have huge hands for your size.
I am 6 feet tall, and an S&W N-frame is too big for my hands. (I wear size medium gloves.) No matter how skimpy the grip, I cannot get enough finger on the trigger in double-action mode. This means my grip will be too far out of line, and the skimpy grip panels, of course, allows the gun to try to take apart the base joint of my thumb.
I can do two things if I want to shoot big bore revolvers: shoot the N-frames and Redhawks in single-action mode only, or forget those guns, and use various single-action sixguns that have smaller grip frames. I went with option two. If I am going to cock the gun, anyway, I might as well carry the relatively slimmer, trimmer single action sixguns. (except for one gun, as explained below.)
There is another option, if your N-frame is old enough to have a SOLID, FORGED trigger. A good 'smith can narrow and dress down the trigger face, as was the case with my Model 58 .41 Magnum. I still have to use skimpy grips, though, with no rubber over the backstrap, so my poor wrist bones don't appreciate the recoil, even if the gun fits, and the web of my hand is OK. I have kept the M58 for sentimental reasons; it was my duty sixgun for several years, during some exciting times, though it was never fired in anger.
Edited again to add: If you like the gun, don't sell it. Pay attention to the options, and work with it a while. I sold off my M629 in the mid-1980's, and regret it today.
Back to the forearm bones alignment: This is checked by looking along the top of your arm and the gun. If your hand's bones are in line with arm bones, to get enough finger on the trigger, you are doing it wrong, in an effort to make your hand fit the gun. Don't do that; make the gun fit your hand. You can get a used narrow trigger, and have a good 'smith dress it down, which will preserve your original trigger, and allow you to return the gun to stock configuration. This replacement trigger will almost certainly need to be fitted by a good 'smith.
The grip size issue can be a dilemma, as rubber grips which cover the backstrap will provide a cushion, but that makes it less likely your hand can be positioned properly, as they increase the distance from the back of the grip to the trigger face. Rubber grips which leave the backstrap exposed still allow your fingers and hand to have a better hold on the gun, which still helps to control recoil.
Another member posted a caution against holding too high. Well, don't hold too low, either. I make sure the web of my hand is as high as possible, without any of it rolling over the top of the frame behind the hammer.
I am 6 feet tall, and an S&W N-frame is too big for my hands. (I wear size medium gloves.) No matter how skimpy the grip, I cannot get enough finger on the trigger in double-action mode. This means my grip will be too far out of line, and the skimpy grip panels, of course, allows the gun to try to take apart the base joint of my thumb.
I can do two things if I want to shoot big bore revolvers: shoot the N-frames and Redhawks in single-action mode only, or forget those guns, and use various single-action sixguns that have smaller grip frames. I went with option two. If I am going to cock the gun, anyway, I might as well carry the relatively slimmer, trimmer single action sixguns. (except for one gun, as explained below.)
There is another option, if your N-frame is old enough to have a SOLID, FORGED trigger. A good 'smith can narrow and dress down the trigger face, as was the case with my Model 58 .41 Magnum. I still have to use skimpy grips, though, with no rubber over the backstrap, so my poor wrist bones don't appreciate the recoil, even if the gun fits, and the web of my hand is OK. I have kept the M58 for sentimental reasons; it was my duty sixgun for several years, during some exciting times, though it was never fired in anger.
Edited again to add: If you like the gun, don't sell it. Pay attention to the options, and work with it a while. I sold off my M629 in the mid-1980's, and regret it today.
Back to the forearm bones alignment: This is checked by looking along the top of your arm and the gun. If your hand's bones are in line with arm bones, to get enough finger on the trigger, you are doing it wrong, in an effort to make your hand fit the gun. Don't do that; make the gun fit your hand. You can get a used narrow trigger, and have a good 'smith dress it down, which will preserve your original trigger, and allow you to return the gun to stock configuration. This replacement trigger will almost certainly need to be fitted by a good 'smith.
The grip size issue can be a dilemma, as rubber grips which cover the backstrap will provide a cushion, but that makes it less likely your hand can be positioned properly, as they increase the distance from the back of the grip to the trigger face. Rubber grips which leave the backstrap exposed still allow your fingers and hand to have a better hold on the gun, which still helps to control recoil.
Another member posted a caution against holding too high. Well, don't hold too low, either. I make sure the web of my hand is as high as possible, without any of it rolling over the top of the frame behind the hammer.
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moooose102
Member
three words, Pachmeyer Decelerator Grips!
been there, done that, bought the grips, and never, never looked back!
been there, done that, bought the grips, and never, never looked back!
Specialized
Member
I have a pair of the S&W X-frame black grips on my 629 3in. They are the same grips that come on the 500's and 460's. I like them for the grip angle and the added cushioning, even more so than the Decellerators I've tried.
Have to second the advice about keeping the revolver in line with the forearm as well, and keeping the elbows unlocked. That will help you more than anything. You'll find that the X grips will position the middle finger's knuckle out of the way so the trigger guard doesn't bash into it upon firing, too. I think they're the absolute best way to go.
Hope this helps -- good luck!
Specialized
Have to second the advice about keeping the revolver in line with the forearm as well, and keeping the elbows unlocked. That will help you more than anything. You'll find that the X grips will position the middle finger's knuckle out of the way so the trigger guard doesn't bash into it upon firing, too. I think they're the absolute best way to go.
Hope this helps -- good luck!
Specialized
Sam1911
Moderator Emeritus
Watch the first video in this series: http://www.myoutdoortv.com/pdk/web/smith.html?feedPID=00zG15zm84msK0GbWemanhJ0KNWQYqM4
Mr. Revolver - Jerry Miculek explains exactly how to grip a revolver correctly both for accuracy and to control recoil. And he goes well past the .44 Mag to show proper technique with the .500 S&W Mag.
If there is something about revolver shooting he can't teach you, it ISN'T worth knowing.
-Sam
Mr. Revolver - Jerry Miculek explains exactly how to grip a revolver correctly both for accuracy and to control recoil. And he goes well past the .44 Mag to show proper technique with the .500 S&W Mag.
If there is something about revolver shooting he can't teach you, it ISN'T worth knowing.
-Sam
Confederate
Member
Many, many people bought .44 magnums (29s/629s), shot them a few times and got rid of them or packed them away in their safes. The simple truth is that they just aren't for everyone.
I went out shooting with my brother and a few friends, and one friend let us shoot his 12-gague shotgun with 3-inch mags. I couldn't take them, but my brother insisted he wasn't bothered by the recoil. When we got back to our room, my brother took his shirt off and then the truth was known. He had black and blue bruises all over his shoulder!
Some people seem to really like this caliber, and if I were a hunter or outdoorsman, I might learn to shoot my 629. The only reason I got it, though, is that it was stainless steel and in that day you just couldn't get them! It replaced a nickel 29 I'd shot a few times, but though I managed to shoot it well, I just never enjoyed it. (The 5-inch Redhawk I tried was even worse.) I also bought a 7-inch Redhawk and didn't like it, either. Now, all of them are gone except the 629, which I've never shot. I only keep it because it's one of the first generation 629s, and I've checked it's serial number with S&W and it wasn't one of the ones with problems. I also like the counterbored chambers, pinned barrel and stamped sideplate.
But I don't think I'll ever shoot it. It's funny, but I don't mind .357 125gr JHPs. The .44 mags just strike me as unpleasant.
I went out shooting with my brother and a few friends, and one friend let us shoot his 12-gague shotgun with 3-inch mags. I couldn't take them, but my brother insisted he wasn't bothered by the recoil. When we got back to our room, my brother took his shirt off and then the truth was known. He had black and blue bruises all over his shoulder!
Some people seem to really like this caliber, and if I were a hunter or outdoorsman, I might learn to shoot my 629. The only reason I got it, though, is that it was stainless steel and in that day you just couldn't get them! It replaced a nickel 29 I'd shot a few times, but though I managed to shoot it well, I just never enjoyed it. (The 5-inch Redhawk I tried was even worse.) I also bought a 7-inch Redhawk and didn't like it, either. Now, all of them are gone except the 629, which I've never shot. I only keep it because it's one of the first generation 629s, and I've checked it's serial number with S&W and it wasn't one of the ones with problems. I also like the counterbored chambers, pinned barrel and stamped sideplate.
But I don't think I'll ever shoot it. It's funny, but I don't mind .357 125gr JHPs. The .44 mags just strike me as unpleasant.
noob_shooter
member
- Joined
- Feb 8, 2009
- Messages
- 348
not as a bad as a 500SW... that round is a wrist breaker alright..
Dr.Mall Ninja
Member
Just sell it to me.
RedAlert
Member
As mentioned above, properly fitted rubber grips will do a lot to tame the pain. If you are serious about keeping the gun and making the .44mag a nicer gun to shoot then you might look into getting it man-na-ported. It will go a long way to taming the muzzle rise. I did it to my S&W 629 with 8-3/8" barrel and it was a much more comfortable gun to shoot.
I hate rude people. Esp on a forum where we're sposed to be friends and having fun. How many times a day do we answer the same questions again?
I dont own a Judge or a Taurus for that matter. Its the first Taurus I have seen that was unique. Most of their guns have struck me as copies. Great original idea. Maybe Smith will come out with an "X" frame 460-410. W/bipod. hahaha
I dont own a Judge or a Taurus for that matter. Its the first Taurus I have seen that was unique. Most of their guns have struck me as copies. Great original idea. Maybe Smith will come out with an "X" frame 460-410. W/bipod. hahaha
moooose102
Member
i watched, and tried the grip/hold that he is teaching. for me it was so uncomfortable, that if i had to shoot that way, or not shoot at all, i would throw the gun in the river. not everything that works for one person, will work for another. everybody is built a little differntly. sometimes, you have to experiment, and find out what works for you. will i ever be a super-shooter like him? nope, dont want to be. i just want to have fun, and hunt. if it works good enough for me to do what i want, then it is good enough for me.
Guillermo
member
Recoil sensitity is a very personal thing. A heavy 44 mag with a 6 or 8 inch barrel doesn't bother me but I LOATHE a light snub.
I think you are getting some good advice here. Experiment with different grips. Wear gloves. Try some different stances. Use lighter loads and "work up". All good strategies if you think the results are worth it.
Perhaps I missed why you are shooting the 44 but if it is hunting, the meat in the freezer will make the effort worth it.
Good luck
I think you are getting some good advice here. Experiment with different grips. Wear gloves. Try some different stances. Use lighter loads and "work up". All good strategies if you think the results are worth it.
Perhaps I missed why you are shooting the 44 but if it is hunting, the meat in the freezer will make the effort worth it.
Good luck
perrytrails
Member
I have the X grips also. Makes a big difference. It takes a lot of practice, and costs a lot if you shooting factory ammo.
Reloading is the way to go and a great hobby. I enjoy it as much as shooting.......
Reloading is the way to go and a great hobby. I enjoy it as much as shooting.......
friscolatchi
Member
You know Batmann, I tried the x frame grips on my 44mag MTN gun and there was a gap at the top. Also, I didn't like the way it looked either. That exposed backstrap is pretty sexy IMHO. I'll deal with the slap, at least with the 4". Now the 6.5 for hunting, that's another matter... Also, if you don't handload, look up mastercast.net for reloads. They're about 22 cents apiece for 44 mag 240's.
PS Slamfire - that gun's a beaut. How old is it?
PS Slamfire - that gun's a beaut. How old is it?
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