At its 1955 introduction, the most powerful production handgun cartridge in the world. Made famous by the Dirty Harry films (1971). Has since been surpassed by .454 Casull, .460 S&W, and .500 S&W, but remains the practical sweet spot for field use — enough power for any North American game, with recoil manageable enough for accurate follow-up shots.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1955, United States
Parent case: .44 Special
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.429" (10.9 mm)
Case length: 1.285" (32.64 mm)
Overall length: 1.61" (40.89 mm)
Max pressure: 36,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:20
Muzzle velocity: 1200–1650 fps
Muzzle energy: 750–1200 ft-lbs
Effective range: 150 yd
Common bullet weights: 180, 200, 240, 250, 300, 320 gr
Primary use: Hunting, Self Defense
Production status: Active
Also known as: .44 Mag · 10.9x33mmR
History: Developed in 1955 by Elmer Keith, S&W, and Remington. Clint Eastwood's Dirty Harry (1971) made it legendary. 'Do you feel lucky, punk?'
Notable firearms: S&W Model 29, Ruger Super Redhawk, Desert Eagle, Marlin 1894
Similar cartridges: .357 Magnum, .454 Casull, .50 AE