Proper bullet selection is key to hunting with any pistol caliber carbine. Velocities can be achieved that the pistol bullets were not designed for. Since 2008, I have tested my bullets in a plastic box filled with wet newspapers. I have seen many pistol bullets fail to penetrate deep enough for humane kills. Over expansion is usually the reason.
In the 44 Mag I like the Hornady 240gr standard XTP. It's rated for a higher than usual impact velocity. It stays together and penetrates deeply at the 1600fps velocity my carbine load produces.
In the 357 Mag, I like either the 158gr XTP-FP or the 180gr Rem SJHP. Both bullet hold up well and penetrate deeply.
Both cartridges are capable of superb killing power when the shooter can place his shots and proper bullets are used.
I prefer large calibers but that is due to my red/green colorblindness. Tracking a deer even a short distance in thick cover is a difficult task for me.
