I really like the 44 special, but I don’t see it ever coming back. The 44 Mag offers the chance to shoot both, so why not?
I would prefer a 44 special to a 357 since I think it would give you just as much penetration without needing a JHP to expand much, and my home defense gun is a Ruger Alaskan (40 oz & 2.5” barrel) loaded with 44 special ammo - 250/260 grain bullets at 900-1000 fps.
But if you go down to Bulldog sized guns, it becomes a bit much for most to handle. I like shooting full power magnum rounds in my Alaskan and 357 rounds in my Model 60 (a 23 oz 5 shot for those not familiar with it) - but I’m fairly recoil tolerant.
Further, for shooting people in self defense, it just isn’t needed. 30 years ago I would have said something different, but the bullets and ammo available now are outstanding. I don’t feel undergunned if I load my M60 with .38+P firing a 158 grain bullet at 1000 fps. All of the ammo from 9mm/38 sp on up is available in loadings that will provide very good penetration and similar sized wounds. A 357 is already a bit more punch than really required.
Sorry. I think it is one of the best rounds out there, but marketing reality is that it has lost. A pity, but I don’t expect it to change.
Oh, I expect you are correct, the .44 mag killed off the .44 special but I still love it and will continue to carry it as my concealed weapon as long as I can handload ammo for it. This post wasn’t to change anyone’s mind it was to smoke out possible .44 Special lovers. Thanks.