I would go with the 44 mag. I used to carry a 41 mag Taurus TI tracker 4" but switched to a 4" S&W 629. I can't really add anything here, everything has been said. More versatile 44spc-44mag, better ammo selection, more powerfull, the list just goes on and on....Simply put they are both great handgun rounds and are very good for thier intended applications. When it comes to thin skinned game like deer or bear either are about the same as far as effectiveness. The 44 does hold an edge when it comes to bigger game, mainly due to its better selection of premium bullets.