If you are shooting 100 yards -125 yards, the 44 Mag will work fine and will be a lot more fun to shoot that the 45-70. You can load some reduced loads for the 45-70 that can be pretty pleasant. 44 Specials will also fire in the 44 Mag rifle. I have both the 44 Mag rifle and several 45-70 rifles. The 44 mag is the most enjoyable to shoot. Its really good for out to 150-180 yards with a little practice. Nothing wrong with the 30-30 either. I love the pistol cartridges in the carbines though.