.44 vs .500

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.44 Magnum or .500 S&W?

.44 Magnum 240-gr coated RNFP at 1200-ish FPS
5
100%
.500 S&W 330-gr coated RNFP at 800-ish FPS
0
No votes
 
Total votes: 5

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Morne
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.44 vs .500

Post by Morne »

It has been too long since I have done a poll on here...

So, I have a number of pet loads. What I am wondering is which of these would y'all choose for a defensive load while bowhunting in an area black bears are known to roam. Assume all other factors are the same (rounds per cylinder, barrel length, etc...) and that recoil from either is well tolerated. Both bullet profiles are identical (RNFP) and both are coated.

What this really comes down to is the age old question - skinny/fast or fat/slow? The .44 has speed but the .500 has mass.
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Re: .44 vs .500

Post by Javelin Man »

For black bears, .44 Magnum should be enough. For grizzlies, anything short of something belt-fed isn't quite enough, but your .500 should be at least something. My .480 Ruger is rather wasted in Ohio but it's still fun to watch someone else shoot it. :oops:
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Re: .44 vs .500

Post by machinegunkelly »

Morne
Not listed for your poll, but the guys I archery hunt with in Idaho all carry 10mm Glocks in chest holsters. Manageable recoil for multiple attempts.
Myself I carry a .357 SW loaded with hard cast.
Easier to hit guy running beside me in the knee.
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Re: .44 vs .500

Post by JustaShooter »

Penetration is the name of the game for what you are considering. I like your projectile of choice - a wide, flat meplat in a heavy-for-caliber projectile is a proven performer. Both of your options are more than adequate, but I'd lean toward the .44 magnum simply because the recoil is more manageable and would allow for a faster follow-up shot if needed. Besides, folks have been carrying that platform for that purpose for decades with great success.
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Re: .44 vs .500

Post by sodbuster95 »

I've owned a .44, a .500, and a .454 Casull. Thought not an option, of the three, I like the .454 the most.
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Re: .44 vs .500

Post by Mr. Glock »

Where is the “Pie” option? You used to always list Pie.

Glock 20 with hot Norma-spec10mm is the correct answer, in any event. Lots of 40 cal 200 grain love at 1250 fps.
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