Tough question. Whitetail deer don't require either one, so I'd pick the .44 Mag. If I HAD to have one or the other ( just because I HAD to ) I'd probably pick a .454, just because I can make it shoot a wee-bit flatter for 125 yard shots. But don't ask me to choose between the .454 and .475 Linebaugh ( or .480 Ruger) if big game lke buffalo, bison, and bears are to be hunted. The 400 gr.-420 gr. bullrts of the .475's will win every time, and make my decision easy.