Your findings with the .44 mag are exactly what I came up with. The chronograph is a must have for reloading. Without it you are using the SWAG method. I used Unique behind a 240 cast bullet for Metalic Sihoutes. Never considered it a reduced .44 mag load. More like a 44 special target load in a 44 case. I have seen the ES tighten up at or close to the top in .44 .454 .357. Been years since I have been there but I used to visit at H.P White Laboratories. Will see if they are still around . . .