So Deerslayer, how did it shoot? I'm betting it kicked less than you expected since it is such a large frame. You can make it easy on yourself while you are getting used to it and use the 44 specials for plinking, less kick and less expense. I inherited my dads 44 Blackhawk which I have always loved and bought a little Marlin lever action in 44 as well to go with it. Lots of fun to shoot and great in the brush.
Where do you go shoot? There are a couple of good places out east of Duvall.