.44 Special
The 1st Generation Charter Arms Bulldogs are built stronger than the older S&W .44SPls - solid frames, no side plates, double, positive cylinder lock-up, ordnace steel frames and cylinders, stronger crane system, shorter hammer throw, 8 groove rifling, unbreakable firing pin and transfer bar ignition/safety systems. The reduced loading specs were established before the CA Bulldog 44s were introduced into the market after 1978 - so the Bulldogs can't be the reason for the "weaker" .44 SPL SAAMI specs.
For those who cannot abide by or tolerate heavy recoiling handguns - those with weak wrists, little hand and upper arms strength, who can't tolerate muzzle blast, etc. - the Bulldog in .44 SPL full power loading is NOT the cartridge for you...at 19 or 20oz (SS version) unloaded, there isn't much gun mass to absorb the recoil impulse and the 3" barrel doesn't usually burn up all the powder. I have 5 CA 1st Gen Bulldogs in a variety of configurations - I have shot several and routinely carry one SS 3"er loaded with the newly reintroduced Triton Hi-Vel .44SPL 240 gr JHP rounds, and they are a handful to control at 1050 fps muzzle velocity - but this piece makes a very potent SD round at ranges out to 30 feet or so AND that is why I carry it in preference to a .38 SPL +P.