.357 Magnum vs .44 Magnum
Typical factory loads side by side: speed, energy, BC, twist, range and what each one is built for.
The short answer
With typical loads, the .44 Magnum is about 120 ft/s faster at the muzzle (1,235 vs 1,350 ft/s).
The .44 Magnum carries about 81% more energy at the muzzle (971 vs 535 ft-lbs), which usually also means more recoil.
Side by side
| .357 Magnum | .44 Magnum | |
|---|---|---|
| Made for | Lengthened .38 Special at much higher pressure. Self-defense, deer and hogs at short range from a 6" revolver. | Made famous as the powerful handgun of its day. Deer, hogs and black bear; backup against big bears. |
| Typical load | 158 grJHP · 6" barrel | 240 grJHP · 6" barrel |
| Muzzle speed | 1,235 ft/s | 1,350 ft/s |
| Muzzle energy | 535 ft-lbs | 971 ft-lbs |
| Typical BC (G1) | ≈ 0.16typical, varies by brand | ≈ 0.17typical, varies by brand |
| Twist rate | 1:18.75 | 1:20 |
| Practical range | 50 yd deer/hog | 75 yd deer |
| Point-blank range | 116 yd6" vital zone | 123 yd6" vital zone |
| Recommended platform | Steel revolver, 4" barrel+Harsh in light snubbies; shoot .38s in those | Large-frame revolver, 6"+Heavy recoil; practice with .44 Specials |
Which one fits you?
.357 Magnum: Lengthened .38 Special at much higher pressure. Self-defense, deer and hogs at short range from a 6" revolver.
.44 Magnum: Made famous as the powerful handgun of its day. Deer, hogs and black bear; backup against big bears.
For most hunters, the right pick is the one you can shoot accurately and comfortably, in a rifle that fits how you hunt. Good shot placement and a bullet built for your game matter more than small differences on paper.
More
- .357 Magnum profile
- .44 Magnum profile
- .38 Special vs .357 Magnum
- 10mm Auto vs .44 Magnum
- All comparisons
Speed, energy and BC are typical figures for the listed load; real numbers vary by brand, lot and barrel length. Always check the ammo maker's data for your exact load.