The Taurus M44 (currently marketed as the Taurus 44) is a large-frame, 6-shot DA/SA revolver chambered in .44 Remington Magnum, featuring factory-ported barrels in 4-inch, 6.5-inch, and 8.37-inch configurations.
The 6.5-inch stainless model measures approximately 11.6 inches in overall length, 6 inches in height, and 1.76-1.8 inches in width at the cylinder, weighing approximately 52 ounces unloaded.
Taurus first introduced the M44 in 1997 and has continued production through 2025, positioning the platform as an affordable alternative to Smith & Wesson and Ruger .44 Magnum revolvers for hunting and backcountry defense applications.
What Makes the Taurus M44 the "Working-Class" .44 Magnum?
The Taurus M44 revolver delivers proven .44 Magnum performance at significantly lower pricing than competing Smith & Wesson and Ruger offerings, making serious magnum power accessible to budget-conscious shooters. This Brazilian-made wheelgun has earned its reputation as a capable hunting and backcountry defense tool for those unwilling to pay premium prices.
Taurus Armas S.A. manufactures the M44 in Brazil, with Taurus International in Bainbridge, Georgia handling U.S. operations. While Taurus has historically faced quality control criticism, the M44 line has generally earned positive reviews for reliable function and solid performance.
The platform represents Taurus's mainstream large-frame .44 Magnum offering, distinct from the discontinued Raging Bull series now replaced by Raging Hunter models.
The M44's lineage traces to 1997, providing nearly three decades of production history. During this time, Taurus has refined the design while maintaining the core ported-barrel concept that distinguishes it from many competitors. The 44 Tracker variant ran from 1999-2011 as a related 5-shot model, while the main M44/44 line has continued production.
Taurus designed the M44 for hunting, backcountry defense (bear and boar country), and general heavy-duty applications where .44 Magnum power proves appropriate. The platform targets shooters who need magnum capability without premium pricing—the "working-man's .44 Magnum" as reviewers commonly describe it.
What Are the Complete Specifications of the Taurus M44?
The Taurus M44 chambers .44 Remington Magnum (also accepting .44 Special) in a 6-shot cylinder. The 6.5-inch barrel model measures approximately 11.6-11.67 inches overall, stands approximately 6 inches tall, spans 1.76-1.8 inches at the cylinder, and weighs approximately 52 ounces unloaded.
Shorter 4-inch models weigh approximately 40-45 ounces while the 8.37-inch version exceeds 52 ounces.
Caliber
The M44 chambers .44 Remington Magnum, one of the most powerful mainstream revolver cartridges. It also accepts .44 Special ammunition for reduced recoil practice and lighter-duty applications.
This dual-caliber capability provides flexibility from full-power hunting loads to manageable practice rounds.
Barrel Length Options
Three barrel configurations address different applications: the 4-inch ported barrel provides a more portable backcountry format, the 6.5-inch ported barrel balances handling with velocity, and the 8.37-inch ported barrel with ventilated rib optimizes performance for scoped hunting use. All feature Taurus's factory porting system.
Dimensions
The 6.5-inch model measures approximately 11.6-11.67 inches overall—substantial but appropriate for hunting and field use.
Height reaches approximately 6 inches. Cylinder width spans approximately 1.76-1.8 inches, reflecting the large frame necessary for .44 Magnum. Shorter barrel variants reduce overall length proportionally.
Weight Specifications
Weight varies significantly by barrel length: 4-inch models weigh approximately 40-45 ounces, 6.5-inch models reach approximately 52 ounces, and 8.37-inch models exceed that.
This substantial weight helps manage .44 Magnum recoil, making the heavier models more comfortable to shoot despite increased carry burden.
Cylinder Capacity
The 6-shot cylinder provides one more round than many competitors' 5-shot designs in this caliber. Six rounds of .44 Magnum deliver substantial defensive and hunting capability, though reloading speed matters given the revolver platform.
How Does the Taurus M44 Design Tame .44 Magnum Recoil?
The Taurus M44 features an all-stainless-steel construction with factory-ported barrel and gas expansion chamber specifically designed to reduce muzzle flip and felt recoil.
The large rubber "Ribber" grips cushion the firing hand while the substantial frame weight absorbs energy, creating a more manageable .44 Magnum shooting experience than lighter or unported alternatives.
Frame and Construction
Current production M44s use all-stainless-steel construction for frame, barrel, and cylinder. The large frame handles full-power .44 Magnum loads without concerns about longevity. Hammer-forged components provide durability for extended service life. The stainless finish resists corrosion—important for field and backcountry applications.
Ported Barrel System
The factory porting and gas expansion chamber represent the M44's distinguishing feature. Reviewers consistently praise this system for noticeably taming .44 Magnum recoil.
Sportsman's Guide describes porting that "helps to mitigate some of the .44 Mag's righteous recoil, aiding follow-up shots." YouTube testers note that porting "really reduces the muzzle flip but you still know you have a powerhouse."
Grip Design
Large rubber "Ribber" grips or similar black rubber designs cushion recoil. User opinions divide on the specific feel—some love it, others prefer alternatives—but most agree the rubber construction helps manage .44 Magnum recoil.
Aftermarket grip options exist for those wanting different configurations.
Sight Configuration
Models feature fixed or blade front sights (often with serrated or red inserts) paired with fully adjustable rear sights appropriate for hunting use.
The 6.5-inch and 8.37-inch versions include ventilated ribs along the barrel that can serve as mounting bases for optic rings, enabling scoped hunting configurations.
Safety Systems
Transfer-bar safety prevents hammer-firing pin contact unless the trigger is fully pulled—standard for modern revolvers.
The Taurus Security System (key-actuated internal lock) appears on many modern models, providing optional disable capability. Standard DA/SA operation with exposed hammer allows manual single-action cocking.
What Variants of the Taurus 44 Are Available?
Taurus produces the Model 44 in 4-inch, 6.5-inch, and 8.37-inch barrel configurations, all in stainless steel with factory porting. Related models include the discontinued 44 Tracker (5-shot, 4-inch ported) and the current Raging Hunter series for specialized hunting applications.
Taurus 44 with 4-Inch Barrel
The 4-inch configuration provides the most portable M44 format for backcountry carry. Weight around 40-45 ounces keeps carry burden reasonable while still managing recoil acceptably. This variant suits those prioritizing portability over maximum velocity and sight radius.
Taurus 44 with 6.5-Inch Barrel
The 6.5-inch model represents the most popular configuration, balancing velocity, sight radius, and handling. At approximately 52 ounces, weight helps absorb recoil while remaining practical for field carry. The ventilated rib supports optic mounting.
Taurus 44 with 8.37-Inch Barrel
The 8.37-inch variant maximizes velocity, sight radius, and weight for dedicated hunting use.
The extended barrel with ventilated rib specifically addresses scoped configurations. This heavy configuration proves most comfortable to shoot but least practical for carry.
Related and Discontinued Models
The 44 Tracker ran from 1999-2011 as a 5-shot, 4-inch ported variant. The Raging Bull 444 was discontinued in 2019, replaced by the Raging Hunter series. The current Taurus 44 line represents Taurus's consolidated large-frame .44 Magnum offering.
What Similar Revolvers Compete with the Taurus M44?
The Smith & Wesson Model 629/29 offers better finish and brand prestige at significantly higher pricing, reviewers note softer perceived recoil from the Taurus due to porting.
The Ruger Redhawk and Super Redhawk provide arguably more durable alternatives with higher price points. For those seeking lighter carry, the 5-shot Taurus Tracker or Raging Hunter series may prove more practical.
User note: “Reviewers and owners generally regard the Taurus M44/44 as a “working‑class” .44 Magnum: accurate, robust enough, and significantly cheaper than S&W or Ruger equivalents, with recoil mitigated by porting and weight.”
How Does the Taurus M44 Perform at the Range?
The Taurus M44 delivers very good practical accuracy for hunting and defense distances, with reviewers describing it as "accurate as a shooter can get" and "more accurate than most shooters can fully exploit."
Reliability earns solid marks across major reviews with no widely reported systemic failures. The ported barrel noticeably reduces muzzle flip compared to unported .44 Magnums.
Accuracy Testing
Accuracy consistently impresses reviewers. Sniper Country summarizes the Taurus 44 as "well-built, reliable and seemingly accurate." CZFirearms forum testing concluded it's "accurate as a shooter can get" with no mechanical complaints.
Christian Gun Owner found "confidence-building practical accuracy" with the related Tracker .44. The guns prove more accurate than most shooters can fully exploit at typical hunting and defensive distances.
Recoil Characteristics
Recoil remains substantial—this is .44 Magnum after all—but factory porting and significant weight make the M44 more manageable than many lighter or unported alternatives.
Sniper Country notes that "recoil felt less harsh than a S&W 629 in their hands, allowing more precise placement of shots." Double-action strings with full-power ammunition still demand strength and practice, and reviewers recommend .44 Special loads for newer shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
Reliability Assessment
Reliability earns generally positive marks. Sniper Country reports "no reliability issues in testing and good functioning with full-power loads." Sportsman's Guide describes the Model 44 as "rock-solid" for bear defense or hunting.
No recent, widely reported systemic failures unique to this model have emerged. Taurus's lifetime warranty provides additional confidence, with documented examples of successful repair and even complete replacement when issues arose.
Trigger Performance
DA/SA operation provides both double-action and single-action capability. The double-action pull runs heavy but usable—expected for a large-frame magnum revolver. At least one reviewer found "Taurus's DA smoother and slightly lighter than a comparable S&W in side-by-side use." Single-action operation delivers cleaner breaks for deliberate hunting shots.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Taurus M44?
The Taurus M44 reliably handles full-power .44 Magnum loads as well as milder .44 Special ammunition. Factory porting makes full-power loads more manageable, though new shooters should start with .44 Special before graduating to magnum loads.
Hunting and Defense Loads
Full-power .44 Magnum hunting loads from Federal, Hornady, Buffalo Bore, and similar manufacturers function reliably. Heavy 240-grain and 300-grain projectiles provide serious penetration for game and dangerous animals.
The ported barrel helps manage recoil while delivering the velocity these applications demand.
Practice Ammunition
.44 Special ammunition provides excellent practice capability with significantly reduced recoil. Budget-conscious shooters can train extensively with .44 Special before confirming zero and function with their chosen magnum loads.
This flexibility makes the M44 more practical for regular practice than shooting full-power magnums exclusively.
Load Selection Considerations
The porting system makes full-power loads more accessible but doesn't eliminate their substantial nature. New shooters and those sensitive to recoil should start with .44 Special, gradually working up to full-power .44 Magnum as skill and comfort develop.
What Are the Best Use Cases for the Taurus M44?
The Taurus M44 excels in hunting applications and backcountry defense where .44 Magnum power proves appropriate. The platform also serves as a dedicated woods gun or home defense option for those specifically wanting magnum capability.
Is the Taurus M44 Suitable for Hunting?
The M44 was designed primarily for hunting, and it excels in this role. The 6.5-inch and 8.37-inch variants particularly suit hunting applications with adequate velocity, sight radius, and optic-mounting capability.
Accuracy proves more than sufficient for ethical shots on deer-sized game and appropriate dangerous game. The ported barrel aids follow-up shots if needed.
Does the Taurus M44 Work for Backcountry Defense?
Bear and dangerous animal defense represents a core M44 application. The 4-inch model provides relatively portable magnum power for backcountry carry. Six rounds of .44 Magnum deliver serious defensive capability against large predators. Sportsman's Guide describes the Model 44 as "delivering in a big way" for bear defense scenarios.
Can the Taurus M44 Serve Home Defense?
While not a primary home defense recommendation due to overpenetration concerns and capacity limitations, the M44 can serve this role for those specifically wanting .44 Magnum power. Reduced .44 Special loads address some overpenetration concerns while maintaining significant capability.
Is This a Professional Tool or Range Novelty?
The Taurus M44 functions as a legitimate professional hunting and defensive tool rather than a mere range novelty.
Documented reliability and accuracy validate serious use. Budget pricing doesn't equate to compromise on core capability—the M44 performs comparably to significantly more expensive alternatives for practical applications.
What Holster Options Work Best for the Taurus M44?
Finding the right Taurus M44 holster requires attention to the platform's substantial dimensions, particularly for longer barrel variants.
Field and outdoor holster configurations suit the M44's typical applications better than concealment-oriented options.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 can accommodate your Taurus M44, though the large-frame revolver presents concealment challenges. The breathable backing provides comfort while the adjustable retention secures your Taurus 44 revolver.
Chest Holster
Chest carry places your Taurus M44 accessibly while hiking, hunting, or in backcountry environments. The chest holster configuration proves particularly useful for .44 Magnum carry where quick access to bear defense matters.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Taurus M44?
Strengths:
- Significantly lower pricing than S&W/Ruger alternatives
- Factory porting effectively reduces muzzle flip
- Solid reliability across major reviews
- Very good accuracy for hunting/defense distances
- 6-shot capacity (more than some competitors)
- All-stainless construction resists corrosion
- Multiple barrel length options (4", 6.5", 8.37")
- Accepts both .44 Magnum and .44 Special
- Rubber grips help manage recoil
- Adjustable rear sights for precise zeroing
- Ventilated rib supports optic mounting
- Lifetime warranty with documented support
Limitations:
- Taurus QC reputation concerns some buyers
- Fit and finish lag behind premium brands
- Heavy double-action trigger pull
- Substantial recoil despite porting
- Large dimensions challenge concealment
- Some reports of sharp edges out of box
- Limited aftermarket compared to S&W/Ruger
- Action may require smoothing for best performance
- Weight makes extended carry tiring
- Brand prestige below established competitors
Should You Buy a Taurus M44?
The Taurus M44 earns a solid recommendation for budget-conscious shooters who need .44 Magnum capability for hunting or backcountry defense without paying premium prices.
The platform delivers comparable performance to significantly more expensive alternatives while accepting the trade-offs in fit, finish, and brand prestige.
Who Should Consider the Taurus M44?
The M44 suits hunters wanting .44 Magnum capability without S&W/Ruger pricing. Backcountry enthusiasts needing bear defense find legitimate capability at accessible prices. Budget-conscious shooters who prioritize function over brand prestige discover genuine value. Those comfortable with Taurus's reputation and willing to inspect their specific example carefully benefit most.
However, shooters who prioritize premium fit and finish should consider S&W or Ruger despite higher costs. Those uncomfortable with Taurus's QC variability may prefer paying more for established peace of mind.
Value Assessment
The M44's value proposition defines the platform. At prices well under $1,000 (often significantly less), buyers get comparable .44 Magnum performance to revolvers costing much more.
Sniper Country considers the slight finish refinement gap "acceptable given the price difference." Sportsman's Guide emphasizes that Taurus 44 "performs just like far more expensive guns" for considerably less money.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
The M44 line remains in active production with multiple barrel lengths available. Parts and service should remain accessible. Taurus's lifetime warranty provides documented support, Clean Fleet Report recounts receiving an entire replacement gun after a hammer spring failure.
Long-term durability reports indicate many years of use without frame or cylinder issues. The platform represents a sustainable choice for those accepting its positioning.
The Taurus M44 proves that serious .44 Magnum capability doesn't require premium pricing—reliable, accurate, and effectively recoil-managed magnum power for the working-class shooter who prioritizes function over brand prestige