RE: 44mag self defense
You might think of using Glaser Safety rounds. From what I understand they are supposed to expend their energy upon impact. They were designed to be able to shoot at a wall and not penetrate the other side. Now how they do this is take a hollowpoint that expands quickly and fill it with something like bird shot. This way when it opens it uses all its energy. Supposed to be a real good personal protection round. If you happen to miss the perp, then you wouldn' t harm anyone on the other side of the wall. They are not real cheap, I think I paid around $7-$10 for 6 shells. This isnt something that you would want to shoot at the range unless just to see how they shoot. But to me, when my life or families life depends on it, money aint an option.