Have you considered the S&W 329PD, a carry a lot, shoot a little, revolver just right for humping rough terrain.
Mackay can fix you up with .44 Special loads to practice with that are stout, 900 fps with a 240 grain SWC, but not quite full power .44 MAG stout.
I also have a 625 MG and prefer to carry the lighter 329 PD. It isn't a lot lighter, but it is enough lighter that you'll notice the difference after you've carried them for awhile in either a belt or chest rig.
