The 500 S&W has far, far more recoil than any 44 Special. The 44 Special is however a far better home defense round. The muzzle flash and recoil would ruin any chance of a follow up shot. Also Magnums of any kind are hard to defend in court if you happen to end up there. The best choice is to use what the police are using for defense. They are using them for a reason, They work, and its easier to defend in court. Like it or not no matter how the laws read, if you shoot someone you very well could end up being the bad guy. It sucks but its true.