Been scoping rough riders out and as I got close to checking out I thought about paying the $50-60 more for the model that come with a 22 mag barrel.

I really have no use for 22 mag at all especially in a single action revolver so I'm not gonna do it but that got me thinking what do people use them for?  

It's a lotta fun.  Completely different experience.

I really don't shoot LR out of the RR anymore...  22 mag way super fun

It’s a hoot, mine shoot 22 LR super well so I don’t use the magnum much. But sometimes it’s just fun to pop bottles

Don't see the point unless you need the extra oomph for hunting, otherwise it's just overpriced 22lr.

And much louder!

The barrels are the same and all RR models can take the Magnum cylinder. The cylinders are easy to find for $30 shipped or less, I wouldn't pay $50 more for the magnum models.

I have a few RR's now and every one of them shoots a tighter group with magnums vs LR's. Magnums can be had with actual jacketed bullets. They also have more power for hunting or self defense.

My young son enjoys shooting water filled soda cans with his convertible 22 revolver. He asks for the magnum cylinder because they have a more dramatic effect then LR.

I will say they as a gun are complete junk. The metals are extremely weak. After the last time I had my son shooting mine he was getting it with lead fragments from the loose tolerance from the cylinder to the barrel. After that I hung it on the wall as a decoration now. It probably had 5-800 rounds thru it.  I bought a Ruger SR22 and he loves that now. Very well built gun.

puts a trapped coyote or fox down much more decisively

I don't own the The Rough Rider,  but I use a Ruger Single Six with the .22 Mag cylinder.  It's excellent for putting down hogs in the trap.

I would suggest the new Ruger Wrangler deserves a look before the Heritage, they come with adjustable sights and convertible option now.