Here's my opinion for what it's worth -

1) Taurus revolvers seem to be a pretty good value. Their customer service can be a little trying (very slow) but they eventually get the job done. I'd say most of their guns are pretty decent for the money. Personal experience with one of their steel .44 revolvers: I returned one for a close friend for repairs (through my shop). The cylinder hand had quit turning the cylinder. Sent it back...took almost 6 months for them to return it but it works fine now. I shot it before/after repairs...they fixed it.

I also sold them for 8 years and they were one of the more popular brands, probably due to the price range. Few people I knew experienced problems with them and few were returned to my shop for repairs. However, the vast majority of people who buy defensive guns actually shoot them very little and don't work them really hard. So, take that for what it's worth.

If the deal is good, I say go for it. Especially since in all likelihood you won't be shooting this thing a whole lot. If you've never shot a lightweight .44 you'll understand why I say that after pulling the trigger the first time.

2) Probably...but I can't recommend anyone.

3) I'd probably carry something like a .44Spec (maybe a GoldDot) for CC and a .44Mag for outdoor protection. Having said that, I own a Model 29 4" and a Marlin 1894 Rifle in .44Mag. I don't shoot either one very much because ammo is expensive, the revolver is a handfull and I have lots of other guns. They're only fun guns and I own them because every American should be required by law to own a .44Mag!

I agree with cebeu that in Colorado there's probably no animal/2-legged defensive problem that can't be solved with a .357 as easily as it can with a .44Mag at less expense and more comfortably. Opinion only, I'd stick with a .38/.357 for carry on the street and in the woods.