Handgun cartridge reference
.44 Special Ammunition
Also known as .44 S&W Special, .44 Spl.
The mild parent of the .44 Magnum — a soft-shooting big-bore for carry and target work in .44 revolvers.
At a glance
Common firearms in .44 Special
Frequently asked
How much does .44 Special cost per round?+
.44 Special typically runs about $0.90–$1.50 per round online, roughly $1,200 for a 1,000-round case at the middle of that range (as of 2026). Bulk cases lower the per-round cost, while premium defensive or match loads run higher. Prices move with supply, so track your own cost per round over time.
What is .44 Special used for?+
.44 Special is most commonly used for revolver carry, target. The mild parent of the .44 Magnum — a soft-shooting big-bore for carry and target work in .44 revolvers.
What firearms are chambered in .44 Special?+
Popular options include S&W Model 29, Charter Arms Bulldog, Ruger New Vaquero. It falls in the handgun category.
How much does .44 Special recoil, and is it available?+
.44 Special has moderate recoil for its class, and availability is currently "moderate." You may need to order it online or from a specialty retailer.
Track your .44 Special the smart way
Rangium logs your .44 Special by the round: stock on hand, cost per round and spend over time, with low-stock warnings when you run short. Ask Vanta how much you have left, and list or find .44 Special firearms in the marketplace.