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My preference is for the Ruger wheelguns for anything starting with .4x. The main reason for this is that the Ruger revolvers do not beat my hand into hamburger with full-power loads, whereas the S&W grip shape is just "wrong" for my hand, and full-power loads will feel like they're trying to tear my thumb out by the roots. I can shoot a Redhawk all day long with no problems, but a S&W 29 will wear me out after only a cylinder or two.

Second reason, the Rugers generally tend to be a bit cheaper, especially the single-action Blackhawks, when compared to the double-action S&Ws.

Third, they're undoubtedly stronger. While injudicious handloading (or rather, deliberate massive overcharges) can destroy them just as any other gun, they are more tolerant of abuse and envelope-pushing.

On the flip side, if you're looking for more "target/defense" purposes for the gun, the S&W might suit you more. They generally have better triggers, and .44 Special is quite sufficient to both target and defensive tasks (not to mention a lot easier on the hand and the revolver), while still able to shoot the heavier ammo.

It all depends on your considerations:
Price
Durability
Trigger
Comfort

For me, the Ruger wins, in price, durability, and comfort. For you, I don't know. Either are good guns, though.