John L. Makes this very statement in his epistle to S&W shooters. And I quote:
"My other two favorite loads are 24.0 grains of H-110 and the 260 Keith for 1,080 fps and 23.5 grains of H-110 under the 310 Keith or 320 LBT for 1,100 fps. I use and recommend the use of these latter loads sparingly so you don't wear out your favorite sixgun prematurely. They are near the upper end of what the Smith and Wesson can handle safely. This is the load I carry when in bear country or on camping trips. This 4" S&W with the 310/320 at 1,100 fps is what I keep under my pillow in elk camp along with a strong flashlight. This is my everyday backcountry insurance policy."
It goes without saying that any gun regardless of make or builder will last longer with mild loads than heavy loads. An S&W 44 mag will last longer with 30000 cup loads than 40000 cup loads and they will last longer with 20000 cup loads than 30000 cup loads. this could be said of the FA 454 Casull and probably any other caliber.
I remember a nickled M29 I stupidly bought one time and then after shooting it awhile decided to trade it in on a blued 6 inch shortly after S&W lopped off the 1/2 inch of the 6 1/2 inch barrels and the guy at the gun store said: "But it has been shot" to which I replied what was it made for a paperweight?
To him, if he had one, his probably would have lasted him several lifetimes going by his remark.