...but we're not TALKING about 44 Special loads. (unless I misunderstood the OP?) We're talking about pushing it so it's suitable for hunting.
I guess if he has a 44 Special, my 44 Magnum option may not be an option. He's talking about limiting his shots to 50 yards for the rainbow trajectory vs. using a .357.
You point out that 44 Special is already big and you don't need to depend on expansion. I would counter that .357 moves out so fast that expansion is not questionable.
Anyway, try not to get too .... PASSIONATE about it. It's a 1st world question, after all.
We are talking about a .44Spl load and one that has been in use for nearly 100yrs. We know the loads, we know the pressures involved, we know what guns to use for them. No different than "Ruger only" .45Colt loads. This is a well beaten path, replete with asphalt and street lights.
Trajectory difference is a total non-issue to 50yds. It may come into play if you pushed it to 100 but not with the Keith load.
Relying on expansion is ALWAYS questionable. Bullets fail, it happens all the time. The .357 also limits your shot opportunities because that expansion comes at a cost, penetration. A .44 Keith bullet or similar LBT design will penetrate end to end on any deer that walks. The .357 with expanding bullets should be limited to broadside, double lung shots with no shoulders involved.
Do not attempt to moderate my responses.
Flatter?
I hear this all the time with 41mag vs 44mag. Really? At 50 yards what is the actual difference? 1"? At 100 yards, maybe worth discussing. I'd bet very few people have any business shooting at game over 50 yards. Let's call a spade a spade.
I meant to reply to this before. People say that because they've heard it. In the real world, there's little or no difference. I will say this, the .41 is probably a better choice for hunting deer sized game. You accomplish the same thing with less recoil. Where the.44 shines over the .41 is with heavier bullets on larger critters.
I doubt there has ever been a man who can hold a revolver for two inches at 100 yards.
The Seyfried/Bowen #13 was their attempt to build an MOA revolver. It's a .475 with an extensively modified frame, browned damascus barrel, English rose & scroll engraving and stocked in ivory. It's one of the most expensive custom revolvers I've ever seen. They accomplished their goal, as Ross did shoot 1" groups at 100yds with it. I'm sure there are plain few shooters capable of this. Especially with iron sights!!!
