I would prefer the .44mag for hunting where the critters are relatively large. It is a heavier load and has stronger brass. If you do not reload, factory ammo has many good varieties. Otherwise, I am very much a fan of the 45 Colt. Pleasant to shoot with awesome frontal area, it deserves respect. It would be my choice for places where big things don't eat your horses. See the Buffalo Bore load for an example of what can be done with normal pressures on this grand old cartridge.