Mark the 44spl was orignally a very mild load. Usually factory loaded if I have my facts right in the 700-800fps range with 240gr payloads. The great Mr. Elmer Keith showed us the way by pushing that round to as much as 1200fps. He wanted more from his handgun and he was very happy to tell everyone that would listen. Because of him Remington and Smith & Wesson came together and designed the round we know as the 44mag and the handgun we know today as the model 29.