I haven't seen you around in a while. The 44 magnum rifle with the exception of the 12 gauge shotgun is the most popular deer hunting firearm in this state. The Marlin 1894, the Ruger 77/44, and the Rossi 92 are the most common guns I see people using. The bullet weight and velocities are around what I get from my muzzleloader with 100 grains on power if that comparison helps or slightly less power than a 20 gauge sabot slug from a rifled barrel. I can shoot 200-250 yards at targets if I aim high enough but I keep hunting shots at 150 yards to keep from too much bullet drop. There is lots of ammo available everywhere so you will easily find a good round. You will not regret getting one if you do. The recoil is way less than a 12 gauge so you can be shooting a lot more and that equates to being a better shot.