Every weapon has its purpose. Like the 45-70 lever gun the 44 mag Super Blackhawk 5.5” is a “save your life” dangerous game weapon. Yes, you can hunt with it. Where I am it is warming up and the bears are waking up, will be everywhere and are hungry. I never go into the woods in my truck or on foot without one of them. Yes, good bear spray is with me as well. For target practice you can use lower power “Cowboy” loads. Normally always loaded with HSM “Bear Loads”, 305gr for the 44 or 430gr for the 45-70. Hard cast flat nose bullets. The idea is penetration. These rounds are not designed for home protection. They will go through all the drywall,siding, several pine trees and land a half mile down the road. For bear, moose or cape buffalo they will shatter every bone in its body and drop it.
Practice with these weapons and loads can be painful. You will get tennis elbow for a month, if you can hold on and still aim a good sight picture.
I prefer the Blackhawk single action as it allows me an added safety. I can always lower the hammer if I decide not to shoot. The extra time is not there with practice.
If you choose the 44 mag, get the Triple K holster and belt. Outstanding after you learn how to break in the leather.
Do it if you have that purpose.
There are few bears in Metro Atlanta, but hey, I still want it. :)
My feeling is, suppose there are a LOT of deer?
Suppose they are all in lightly-armored vehicles?
First time I shot my S&W 629 in 44 mag I shot at some trees. Blew through them like they weren’t even there.
I carry it in a chest holster. Love that gun!
Bought it for bears because I’m in Montana.