I have used the .444 on several occasions. It has dropped everthing where it stood. No need for a scope I use it with open sites, recoil kept knocking the scope loose, still never missed a shot or kill. I love it, the rifle only weighs appoximately six lbs, and is a short lever action with a ported barrel,perfect in the thick woods. I have also found that if the round hits some small branches it stays on target. I have experience with both the .45-70 and .444, They are a lot alike but the .444 has the potential to 0 outat up to 200 yards and has more velocity overall; the .45-70 will be dropping at 100 yards. Needless to say I sold the .45-70.I am not a reloader I just buy my ammo off the shelf,so as far as that goes the .45-70 may be better for thereloaders. However my favorite rifle and roundis the .325 WSM