If the box says the .44 mag hydra-shock is pushing 1250 fps from factory than i figure you're going to lose at least 100 fps right off the top out of a 4 inch barrel. lets say that be the case..... now we are pushing a 240 gr. tip at approx 1100-1150. we are not all that far from a .45 acp+p at this point. I carry a 4 inch 29 stoked with the federal 240 gr hydra-shock. I have used this load/gun to put down many wounded animals and would not hesitate to use it in a self defence situation. With the right load the .44 magnum is anything but unreasonable.