Just an update, to keep all the information together:

I saw a copy of the Sierra 5th Edition manual at a local store. It has their Sports Master 240gr JHC and 300gr JSP bullets listed with AA #7. The velocity numbers for both were quite good.

Also, I am looking more at getting the Ruger Redhawk with 5.5" barrel. Seemed to balance pretty well in my hands (although with an empty cylinder) and should give a bit more velocity for the magnum loads.