The 44 Special (44 S&W Special) was developed by Smith & Wesson in 1907 and introduced in their New Century revolver in 1908. Although essentially a lengthed 44 Russian case, it was one of the first large-caliber revolver cartridges designed for smokeless powder, with a thick rim, heavy brass, and a 1.16-inch case. Bullet diameter is .429. The original load used a 246-grain bullet at 755 feet per second, slow but hard-hitting and2350 with an excellent reputation for accuracy. The 44 Special has continued in production and has recently seen a resurgence in popularity. 44 Special ammunition can be safely used in 44 Magnum revolvers for low-recoil practice.
