Paper ballistics are deceiving. I am firmly of the belief that the only reason they exist is to sell ammo. I know that is rather cylincal of me, but the paper numbers don't really tell you much and frankly muzzle energy numbers are a poor measure of lethality. Case in point, there are any number of smaller and lesser rounds that "produce" (actually ME is not measured or measurable, it is calculated) more ME than a .500 Linebaugh slinging a 500 grain bullet, but you can bet me which one will produce the bigger wound channel and there is a good chance it won't be the smaller round. Yeah, that is a bit of a generalization, however, the .44 Magnum is a round that has been with us a long time and been pressed to do many chores. Some it does well, some marginally. For me, if I had to choose one round over the .44 for all purposes (excluding all of the big bangers that I own), it would hands down be the .45 Colt. It can do all and more than the .429 Magnum with less effort -- heavier bullets, same velocities, less pressure. JMHO and your mileage may vary............

As far as ammo costs are concerned, there really is only one solution and that is to reload. You will save a bundle in the long run.