I wouldn?t say a variable is useless, but I wouldn?t say a 2x or red dot was either.

I agree with Craig a 44 is best inside 100-150, and a red dot works very well at those distances, as does a 2x. Having used red dots in competition and made shots out to 400 yards on 4moa targets, it simply takes practice.

Personally a 1-4x variable would be a great optic to run on a 44 revolver, having personally witnessed an accomplished Handgunner struggle to make a running shot on a buffalo, (he did wind up dropping it with one shot) being able to switch to 1x when the need arises would be nice. Having the ability to go up to 4x also would help with recognizing any obstructions that might be in the way when sitting in a stand.

Just my 02 cents............
Trapr