Only two deer with my 44 Mag Ruger pistol. 7.5 inch barrel. One deer at 50 yards and one at 25 yards. One bang flop and one ran about 50 yards. I have taken 4-5 deer with the 30-30. Again, good results there as well.

If I had to pick one for a rifle next deer season, I would pick the 30-30. I am just more familiar with it. It’s a weak argument but all I got. Never hunted with a rifle in 44 Mag.

I think either will do the job. The heavier 44 bullets could have some advantages in other scenarios.

"...aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one." - Paul to the church in Thessalonica.