I've hunted with long and short barrels and it really is just a matter of preference. You're not going to lose enough velocity to make any real difference. The deer won't be able to tell. I've had the same results with a 7.5" .44 Bisley, 4" .44 Anaconda, and 4" M57.
I don't reload (yet) and so far the most accurate .41mag ammo out of my 57 has been Winchester 240-gr Platinum Tip. Heavier than most .41 loads, but puts them in one nice ragged hole.
I don't reload (yet) and so far the most accurate .41mag ammo out of my 57 has been Winchester 240-gr Platinum Tip. Heavier than most .41 loads, but puts them in one nice ragged hole.