I've shot a few deer with a 77/44, loaded with 300 grain Beartooth WFNs at just under 1600 fps. Probably not the bestest bullet for drt deer, but they penetrate, and bear were also on the menu, so.....
The deer I shot were all lung shot, full penetration, and about a 30 yard average run. Pretty typical.
I probably would have gotten more reaction/less run with a lighter, faster jacketed bullet, but max penetration is what I had in mind. Plus, the heavier bullets were more accurate.
I consider the .44 mag rifle an excellent woods cartridge
