Some of the 80s re-run of 24/624's were problematic. I knew guys with both from that run who had difficulties with them, and both of them definitely know their way around a revolver.
As to a stout 44 Special on deer, I've killed several with 240-255 grain SWCs going 900-1100 fps from 44-45 caliber revolvers. I punch them through the shoulders and those loads will put them down fine with a good hit and almost invariably make two holes for each shot.
