This is an interesting thread and mirrors my own thoughts. I have been running 300 gr speer sp's through my FA .44 mag for several years and I probably don't need to stop now. I'm sure those big slugs would be great for heavier game but they just blow a .44 sized hole through a deer. Not that that is a bad thing, but I could do the same thing with Elmers 240 SWC. So I'm seriously thinking of moving back to a 240 gr bullet. I'm thinking XTP's for starters and see if they open up. I know 180's and 200's open and are fine for crossways chest shots but I've heard too many bad stories about not getting the job done if things are not ideal. Shucks, I may just end back up with the old 240 gr Keith cast bullet after all. It seems that bullet will do anything you would ask of a .44 mag. It's funny, the more we learn, the more we prove old Elmer right! 44 Man