Hornady .44 Special Ammo
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Hornady .44 SPCL 180gr XTP Custom Pistol Ammunition 20rds - 9070
Brand:
Hornady
Bullet Type:
Extreme Terminal Performance
Caliber:
.44 S&W Special
Grains:
180 grain
Rounds:
20
Marketplace Insights
★ 4.0/5
based on 3 customer reviews across 3 variants from 24 retailers
Generally positive feedback on availability and service, though one customer experienced chambering compatibility issues with their firearm.
What customers like
Product Availability67%
For some reason .44 special ammo is hard to find in stores
Fast Shipping33%
Our order was swiftly processed and shipped
Competitive Pricing33%
this ammo at a decent price from PSA
Common concerns
Chambering Issues33%
My magnum research would not chamber these rounds
Frequently Asked Questions
Hornady .44 Special Ammo
What is the best 44 Special ammo?
For defense, SIG SAUER 200-grain Elite V-Crown JHP and Winchester Silvertip 200-grain hollow points are top choices. For target shooting, CCI Blazer 200-grain hollow points work well. Prices typically range from $18.63 to $40.53, averaging around $26.69.
What is 44 Special equivalent to?
.44 Special falls between .38 Special and .44 Magnum in power. It is roughly equivalent to .45 Colt, producing similar velocities with comparable bullet weights. Factory loads typically achieve around 870 ft/sec from 3-inch barrels, with mild recoil and moderate power.
What is 44 Special ammo good for?
.44 Special suits self-defense, concealed carry, and hunting at close ranges. Its large bullet offers solid stopping power with manageable recoil, making it practical in snub-nose revolvers. It also works well for target shooting and small game hunting. Factory loads typically run $18–$40 per box.
Is a 44 Special more powerful than a 357 Magnum?
No. .357 Magnum generates higher velocity and energy than .44 Special. The .44 Special uses a larger diameter bullet but operates at lower pressure, producing less muzzle energy. By standard ballistic measures, .357 Magnum is the more powerful cartridge.
Is 44 Special more powerful than 9mm?
Yes. .44 Special typically fires heavier bullets at lower velocity than 9mm, producing comparable or greater energy depending on the load. Its larger diameter (.429" vs .355") creates a bigger wound channel. However, modern 9mm ammunition has narrowed the gap considerably, and 9mm offers higher capacity.
Can you shoot .44 Special in a .44 mag?
Yes, .44 Magnum revolvers safely fire .44 Special rounds. Both use the same .429-inch bullet diameter, and the Special is simply a shorter version of the Magnum case. Clean the cylinder regularly when alternating between the two to prevent carbon ring buildup.
How powerful is 44 Special?
.44 Special typically produces 250–300 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, placing it between lighter defensive rounds like .38 Special and the more powerful .44 Magnum. It handles well in revolvers, suits self-defense and small to medium game hunting, and produces noticeably less recoil than magnum cartridges.
How much is the 44 Special?
.44 Special ammunition typically costs around $26.69 per box. Most listings range from $18.63 to $40.53 depending on brand, grain weight, and bullet type. We track 3 variants from 24 retailers, with 2 currently in stock.