I'm not selling it short, just stating a fact.
In original factory loadings, the .348 has a much flatter trajectory than a .444. If a man were inclined to only shoot such ammo, the .348 would allow further reach. The initial loadings of the .444 were also compromised by the use of pistol bullets, which has long since been remedied.
I agree the .444 comes into its own with the heavier, more suited to the task bullets, and mine had the 1/38 twist, so that option was not on the table. Using .44 Mags with heavy bullets gives me an idea what was left out with that slow twist.
I've shot the .45-70 quite a bit with heavy bullets, so I'm aware of what a large bore lever can do. Given the right twist and comparable bullets, there's nothing I wouldn't take on with a .444 that I wouldn't try with the .45-70. It's kind of like the .44 Mag vs .45 LC argument.
A 355 grain Beartooth GCHC
That would be my choice for big stuff.
