I know this is a Smith and Wesson forum, but I have posted this in other threads, so here goes:

If you really want to appreciate the "middle magnum", get yourself an FA. My 654 Silhouette will get 1800 fps out of the NEI 290-grain cast bullet, and the one in 14" twist stabilizes it perfectly.

There is nothing you can do with a 44 magnum that I cannot do with a 41, and I will do it with less recoil, less muzzle blast, and a flatter trajectory.

Yes, it is a handloader's cartridge, and probably a caster's as well. But it is absolutely a superb handgun round, in my estimation.