So I'm gonna use a handgun for the "late" deer gun season. My options are a Ruger SRH in 44mag w/240 JFP or S&W 57 in 41mag w/210JHP. The 44 barrel is an inch longer. (both in the 7-8" range...don't know the numbers of my the top of my head and didn't feel like measure them) I know that ballistically the 44 with heavier bullets and longer barrel is superoir but I have the odd feeling the 41 has had trigger work done on it. I know for a fact that I shoot (or it shoots) better groups with the 41. Any reason you guys feel I should opt for the 44? Shots will be 75MAX and likely right around 50. I know the .357 is generally considered minimal for deer and the 41 is well above its numbers...but does anyone have on-game experience with the 41. Just looking for some confidence or advice. BTW 240gr bullets for the 41 are available but if memory is correct 210 is the sweet spot for the weight vs speed balance.
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Anything I say is my opinion, just that...and only that.
"...and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God?
I'd go with the 41 just to be different. I have never shot one before, but have been wanting to get a Taurus Tracker in 41 for a lightweight carry gun while deer hunting. I watched my buddy shoot 2 does with a 357 magnum last year (Smith an Wesson) and the furthest they went was 30 yards after being hit.
Location: S.W. Pa.-- Heart in North Central Pa. mountains-
Posts: 2,508
RE: 41 magnum or 44magnum?
Well, I have Ruger Blackhawks in both .41 Mag, and .44 Mag. and used to shoot them both quite a bit. The .44 produces more of every thing than the .41, but I enjoy the .41 much more, and find it more accurate in my hands. If you feel your shots will be in the 50-75 yd. range, I would have no qualms about using the .41. Either gun will do the job, IMHO.Use the one you are more comfortable with.
OOH MAN!!! I totally forgot that I'm getting some reloading stuff and dies for the 41 for christmas!!! Thanks guys, but my decision is definately made now. It'll be my first with a handgun and first with my own handloads (assuming the guests come to the party and I do my part) With handloads you can get the 41 to shoot on the same level as the 44. so its an easy decision from there.
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Anything I say is my opinion, just that...and only that.
"...and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God?
I have a Super Redhawk in 44 mag and a Blackhawk in 41 mag.
Both are accurate pistols.
in the 41 you are very limited to what bullet weights are available or atleast easy to find
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From the Shoreline of Erie before the Great Black Swamp was drained
I have both but find the .41 to be a bit nicer to shoot and a bit moe accurate. For a non-handloader, I'd be tempted to suggest the .44 but if loading yor own, .41 was a good choice.
Also, don't let those praising the .44 be all high and mighty. Their big .44 is actually only a .429. The just call it a .44 to make themselves feel better.
41 magnum or 44magnum?
) With handloads you can get the 41 to shoot on the same level as the 44. so its an easy decision from there.
