The .44 Mag is a great deer killer. I have seen and heard results on both end of the spectrum when hollow point bullets here used. These experiences range from pistols, to rifles, to muzzleloaders, some with full penetration and some with only flesh wounds. I personally have never had a HP exit a deer, even the smallest doe, when shot from any of these weapons. Theoretically, the HP points are made for pistols and designed to expand at those velocities delivered by a pistol. Many will say that the velocity delivered from a muzzleloader and/or rifle barrel will result in premature expansion of a HP. With that said I have seen premature expansion from my max hand loads from my .44 pistol. I continue to load heavy HP's for my pistol as I think that the velocities are borderline and the added mass seams to help. In my Marlin 1894 .45LC, Marlin 1895 .45-70 and my muzzleloader I have switched to either a Partition or a Barnes X bullet. These bullets are designed to expand at low velocities yet retain a "un-deformed" base which will almost certainly deliver full penetration. These bullets are pretty pricey but their performance is worth it. Cast Lead is also an option but make sure you are aware of the hardness. Too soft and your results will not differ from a HP. Too hard and all you will do is punch holes, I've made this mistake and it is not pretty.

Toby