Gunsmithing Taurus M44 44mag factory load

[JKL]

Hi. I own a Taurus M44 44mag with a 4 inch ported barrel. I do not do handload and I am not in a position to get rid of it and get a Colt or Ruger or a Dan Wesson....I know that I should have purchased a higher quality from the beginning, but didn't.
So I am headed to Kodiak Island AK in September with a bow and want to find a factory load for that gun to use for bear protection. What can I use? How hot and large can I get away with in that gun?
I purchased some low recoil buffalo bore loaded with 255 grain keiths....is that enough? Can I shoot heavier buffalo bores loaded with 305 grains (not the +p stuff)?
Any help and suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

[jeo556]

Re: Taurus M44 44mag factory load

I have no idea what types of pressure a Taurus 44 mag can handle. I will say that although there may be someone here that can help you I really think there are better resources to find this kind of information out than "the hide".

Try here.

good luck and stay safe

 

[flyrodder]

Re: Taurus M44 44mag factory load

You might try contacting Taurus. I have a 444 Raging Bull in 44 magnum my wife bought for me, and, yes it is cheaper than other big names, but she bought herself a 357 magnum Tracker and mine for the price of a S&W, and they both shoot well, work well, and have so far proven to be quite durable. My guess is shooting a lot of heavy loads might show some stress in yours, with the lighter frame, over time, but I would be surprised if it couldn't handle factory loads of any kind.

On the other hand, I'm not sure you need the heaviest load you can find - even "lighter" 44 magnums have proven effective on large bears, especially if you are comfortable shooting them and can place them effectively.

Good luck!

 

[Tactical Support]

Re: Taurus M44 44mag factory load

The 305 and 320 Corbon's will shake it loose and void warranty I have see this twice in the shop. Stay with the 240 gr and the light 255 you will be fine.