I'm looking to get me a barrel for my Encore. Here in Iowa it has to be a straight walled case, and the DNR lists the legal calibers. The 450 Marlin and 480 Ruger are not listed. My question is this, since this will be a Handgun, say with a 15" barrel, which cartridge would you choose and why? Recoil will be a factor. I'm considering a 454 Casull, a 444 Marlin, and a 45-70. As far as recoil, I figure the 45-70 would be the worst, then the 444, followed by the 454. This gun will be used for Whitetail deer out to 100 - 150 yards.

I know for sheer power the 45-70 rules, but am thinking of the 444 for flatter shooting and a little less recoil. I'm probably wrong, but the 454 looks like a hot 44 magnum.

Anyone have any of these? Your thoughts? What would you do?