I've had my 329 for almost 3 years now. Regular factory 240 gr. loads are stout, but tolerable. The stiffest load I've tried is the Federal castcore (300 gr., I think). Lots of recoil with those. I don't like to shoot .44 specials in mine, when I want lighter loads I use the cowboy action .44 mag stuff (I'm not a reloader, but it certainly would be useful with the cost of .44 ammo). It's sighted in with 240 grain Hornady loads right now, for the deer season. Maybe someday...
It's not a revolver that I that shoot a lot, but it's certainly one that I like to carry when I'm in bear country. I shoot it enough to keep my hand in, and practice a lot more with a Model 28. I believe that proficency with about any 4" S&W revolver, particularly one built on the same size frame, goes a long way to being proficient with other models. Even practice with a 4" model 15 is helpful.
The trigger on mine is superb. Not quite as good as my early 70s Model 28, but it's plenty good enough. I wouldn't think of using the word "gritty" to describe it.
I've shot it with both the factory wood and rubber grips. I've settled for the rubber, although I really don't see a lot of difference, I'm just trying to keep the wood grips in nice condition, I suppose. The idea of using a set of grips from a .500 sounds interesting.
One thing to consider about the magna-porting option is the noise level. Every ported gun I've ever shot (not many, admittedly) was significantly louder to the shooter than an unported version. Not sure what that would do to ones hearing in the great outdoors with no ear protection. I'd hate to be deafened right after a bear attack.
I paid $600 at Popguns in Indy one day when they had a $100 off sale. Didn't have to think about that one too long!
If you're looking for a good backcountry .44, I heartly recommend it. And the endorsement by WildAlaska is a heck of a lot more significant than mine.
RBH