I too have an S&W model 629 (stainless) w/ an 8 3/8"...no way in hell would it be my selection for home defense. My .45 ACP (Colt CC) wins hands down for that function. I did spot one of the .50s in the display case last friday when I was out picking up a Marlin and it didn't even tempt me, maybe I'm not nuts afterall