I hear what you are saying about the .444 but the .450 and the 45/70 are basiclly the same round. The 45/70 is more user friendly by being able to find factory ammo at many locations. I hand load and I can make my 45/70 be any where on the power scale , up to and including the .450's range.The 45/70 is made in many brands and styles of rifles. That alone will change alot of minds. The .444 is a great round I had one for many years I just like the old 45/70 better. And its like shooting a piece of our history. Just think that was a military round for severl years !!!