.44 special deer hunting loads

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  • sugarcreekbrass

    Expert
    Industry Partner
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    26   0   0
    Mar 29, 2015
    938
    43
    West central
    A few years ago someone made up some bullets for a relative. They were using these loads in 44 mag rifles with kids. The bullet was a copper jacketed lead flat point. I think they were 185 gr. They abolutely love those rounds as they didn't have any recoil and the damage on deer was usually worse than a 12 gauge slug. I know this isn't much help.
     

    Sniper 79

    Master
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    19   0   0
    Oct 7, 2012
    2,939
    48
    Had a 10" super blackhawk that didn't shoot to my standards using magnums.

    Regret not keeping it a bit longer and experimenting with specials. I bet it could have been a tac driver. Sure it would get the job done in the woods.
     

    Whip_McCord

    Expert
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    2   0   0
    May 14, 2010
    762
    63
    NWI
    You did not mention the firearm to be used. Is it 44 special only or is it 44 mag and you want to use 44 special ammo. Do you load your ammo? I have a few 44 magnum revolvers and I only load magnum brass, even for light loads.
     

    DadSmith

    Grandmaster
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    1   0   0
    Oct 21, 2018
    22,200
    113
    Ripley County
    I've loaded up something I would call Dirty Harry's light special load for the 44 magnum. 240gr poly coated lead swc 11gr CFE Pistol in my 6.5" barrel at around 1160 fps with approximately 715 ft lb energy similar to a 158gr 357 magnum. Dirty Harry was right it is very manageable with plenty of power for deer hunting or even self defense.

    I'm assuming you have a 44 magnum and want lighter less recoil loads for your hunt. Don't load this in a 44 special it would be to much.
     

    NKBJ

    at the ark
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    4   0   0
    Apr 21, 2010
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    In the old book "The ABC's Of Reloading" (1974) there's a photo of Lyman's #429421 that went lengthwise through a 180 pound buck's torso for a one shot kill, from a 4" barrel .44 Special. It's not a matter of foot pounds.
     

    DadSmith

    Grandmaster
    Rating - 100%
    1   0   0
    Oct 21, 2018
    22,200
    113
    Ripley County
    In the old book "The ABC's Of Reloading" (1974) there's a photo of Lyman's #429421 that went lengthwise through a 180 pound buck's torso for a one shot kill, from a 4" barrel .44 Special. It's not a matter of foot pounds.

    Your right my grandfather use to kill deer 1 shot with a 22lr depredation hunting. He'd shoot them in the eye, or the ear.
     
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