Don't forget about the 280gr A-Frame and the 250 gr NP, I think I saw someone with a stout 300 grainer also but can't remember. I used one a few times that belonged to a buddy of mine - awesome cartridge! Dropped two deer and three good boars in thier tracks! I love my 45/70 but the 444 is high on my list of gotta haves! My experience was that it kicked a little less than the govtwith a flatter trajectory. I doubt that anything in NA could withstand a 280 A-Frame or 300 SWC at 21-2200 fps! For the big bears though I think I would stick with the 45/70 and Hammerheads. JMHO.