Dave
I have been wanting this cal in a lever action for some time. I have never fired a lever action at the range to sight one in. I ran accross a 1894p that the owner brought into the local dealer to sell it. Its a 44 mag ported 16.5" barrel, and at the bench it will kick as a heavy mag rifle (338-416) I own it and am very glad I am not still waiting for a 480. Standing up, off hand its not that bad, but at the bench oh my. You should try out a short barrel 44. I believe the 44 mag in a rifle is very impressive out to 100 yds. After that why arn't you shooting a long gun?
Jim