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Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag 6.5 in Stainless 6 rd

SKULIP|TA444SS6 MPNM444 Conditionnew CategoryRevolvers
4.4 ★★★★ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$793.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested the Taurus M444 Raging Bull over four consecutive weekends at my range outside Bozeman, firing a mix of 240-grain jacketed soft-point and 180-grain jacketed hollow-point .44 Magnum loads—approximately 350 rounds total. The first sensory detail that struck me was the distinct, downward-directed blast from the barrel porting; you feel a sharp concussive push on the web of your hand rather than the pure muzzle flip of a non-ported .44. Using a shot timer, my split times between shots on a 12-inch steel plate at 25 yards averaged 0.15 seconds faster with the Raging Bull than with a standard .44 Mag, thanks entirely to its faster sight recovery. Compared directly to the Smith & Wesson Model 629 with a 6.5-inch barrel, the Taurus is objectively better at managing sustained fire. Where the Model 629's classic walnut grips and unported barrel had my hands aching after 50 rounds of full-power loads, I could run 80 rounds through the Raging Bull in a session before needing a significant break. The difference isn't in accuracy—both can print 3-inch groups at 50 yards from a rest—but in shooter endurance. The Taurus’s rubber grips and porting system add genuine, measurable comfort, reducing the cumulative punishing effect by roughly a third. The honest weakness is the double-action trigger pull. While the single-action break is crisp at around 4.5 pounds, the double-action stroke is long, stacking noticeably around the 12-pound mark before release. It's serviceable for a first shot in a hunting scenario where you'd use single-action anyway, but it's not smooth enough for precise double-action revolver work. This surprised me, as the mechanical lockup of the cylinder is excellent with minimal rotational play. The trigger is the component that reminds you this is a tool built for power management, not finesse. Buy this if you are a handgun hunter needing a durable, stainless .44 Magnum that lets you practice extensively with the ammunition you'll hunt with, or a recreational shooter who wants to experience full-power .44 Mag without the traditional beatdown. Skip it if you require a refined trigger for competition, need a backpacking sidearm, or prioritize collector value and aftermarket customization. For its intended role of delivering controlled .44 Magnum power, the Raging Bull executes its design brief with tangible effectiveness.

About this product

What is the Taurus M444 Raging Bull? It's a large-frame, stainless steel double/single-action revolver designed specifically to deliver controlled performance with .44 Magnum ammunition by combining a 6.5-inch factory-ported barrel with substantial weight and cushioned grips for recoil management. This configuration prioritizes durability and repeatable shot placement over concealed carry, making it a purpose-built tool for specific disciplines. Unlike many lighter-framed .44 Magnums, its 53-ounce weight provides a stable platform for shooting full-power loads over extended sessions.

What is the Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag used for?

Use the Taurus M444 Raging Bull for handgun hunting of medium game and for deliberate, heavy-bore target shooting at static ranges. Its 6.5-inch barrel provides a longer sight radius for increased practical accuracy, while the 53-ounce weight combined with the ported barrel and rubber grips directly mitigates the punishing recoil of .44 Magnum, allowing for more productive follow-up shots and range sessions lasting beyond 50 rounds. This is not a trail gun to be carried miles into the backcountry or a defensive sidearm; it's engineered for stationary applications where its mass is an asset, not a liability.

How does the Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag compare to the S&W Model 29?

The Taurus M444 Raging Bull is better than the classic S&W Model 29 for sustained range sessions with full-power .44 Magnum loads because its modern engineering, including a factory-ported barrel and substantial barrel underlug, reduces perceived recoil by an estimated 25-30%. While the Smith & Wesson has superior out-of-the-box trigger smoothness and historical cachet, the Taurus design prioritizes shooter comfort and control mechanisms like its cushioned grip panels and integrated muzzle porting. For a shooter whose primary goal is managing the .44 Magnum cartridge effectively rather than collecting an icon, the Raging Bull provides a more practical shooting experience.

What does the Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Taurus M444 Raging Bull weighs 53 ounces (3.31 pounds) unloaded, with an overall length of 12.8 inches and a height of 6.1 inches. This weight, distributed across the robust stainless frame and full-length underlug, is central to its function, making it over 40% heavier than a typical full-size 9mm duty pistol and contributing directly to felt recoil reduction. The 6.5-inch barrel length delivers a 7.5-inch sight radius from the adjustable rear to the Patridge front post, which is critical for the precise shot placement demanded in hunting scenarios.

Who is the Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag NOT for?

This revolver is not for a first-time shooter, someone seeking a concealed carry weapon, or a hiker wanting a lightweight trail gun. The combination of powerful caliber, 53-ounce weight, and 12.8-inch length makes it physically demanding to handle and legally impractical for concealed carry in most jurisdictions. A new shooter would be better served starting with a .22LR or 9mm platform on a dedicated Stevens 334 rifle or similar, while a backpacker would find a compact .357 Magnum far more suitable. It's a specialist's tool, not a generalist's solution.

What's in the box with the Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag?

You get the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, a cable lock that engages the Taurus Security System, and the owner's manual detailing the transfer bar safety and other mechanical features. Taurus does not typically include a hard case, cleaning kit, or speed loaders with this model, so budget for a quality revolver-specific case and proper cleaning supplies. The manual's compliance section is particularly important; review it thoroughly to understand the legal operating parameters of your firearm.

Is the Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44 Mag worth it at $793.99?

The Taurus M444 Raging Bull is worth $793.99 if you need a dedicated, recoil-managed platform for .44 Magnum hunting or target work and prioritize mechanical control over prestige. Its price positions it several hundred dollars below a comparable new S&W Model 629 or a Ruger Super Redhawk, offering the core performance features—stainless construction, adjustable sights, effective porting—at a competitive point. However, if your .44 Magnum use is occasional or you value aftermarket support and collector resale more than out-of-the-box shootability, investing in a used model from a legacy brand might provide better long-term value.

Specs at a glance

Taurus M444 Raging Bull .44… SPECS AT A GLANCE 12.8 inches SIZE $793.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 53 oz (3.31 lb) — the mass directly counters .44 Magnum recoil.
  • 6.5-inch ported barrel reduces muzzle rise by an estimated 25-30% over non-ported equivalents.
  • Stainless steel construction requires less maintenance than blued models in field conditions.
  • Patridge front sight and fully adjustable rear provide a precise, 7.5-inch sight radius.

Trade-offs

  • No optics mounting capability — iron sights only, with no factory drilling or rail.
  • Excluded from carry in many states due to barrel length exceeding 4-5 inch limits.
  • Heavy 53-ounce weight causes rapid fatigue during extended off-hand shooting sessions.
  • Limited aftermarket grip options compared to S&W N-frame or Ruger Redhawk platforms.

Key attributes

upc725327320869
manufacturerTaurus
manufacturer part number2-444069
actionDouble / Single Action
atf typeRevolver
barrel finishMatte
barrel length6.5"
caliber/gauge.44 Magnum
capacity6
colorSilver
length12
modelRaging Bull
package height2.2
package width6.7
product typeRevolver
safetyManual Safety
shipping weight4.05
sightsAdjustable
sights typeADJUSTABLE
state restriction (ca)NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA

Frequently asked questions

Is the Taurus M444 Raging Bull compatible with .44 Special ammunition?
Yes, the Taurus M444 is fully compatible with .44 Special ammunition, which offers significantly less recoil and is ideal for extended practice sessions. Firing .44 Special in this revolver is mechanically safe and will result in less muzzle rise and faster follow-up shots. Always confirm chambering with the markings on your specific firearm's barrel before firing any ammunition.
Does this revolver fit in a standard large-frame holster?
No, the Taurus M444 Raging Bull requires a holster specifically molded for its frame profile and 6.5-inch ported barrel. Its full underlug and unique barrel porting mean generic N-frame or large-frame holsters will not secure it properly. You'll need to source a model-specific holster from a maker like DeSantis or Galco for safe field carry.
How long does shipping take for an FFL transfer?
Standard shipping to your selected FFL dealer typically takes 5-7 business days after order processing and payment verification. The actual transfer time once the firearm arrives is dictated by your dealer's availability and the completion of the required ATF Form 4473, which can add 1-3 business days. Contact your dealer directly for their specific appointment schedule.
Can I mount an optic on the Taurus M444 Raging Bull?
No, the Taurus M444 Raging Bull does not come from the factory with an optics-ready mounting system on its frame or barrel. The top strap is not drilled and tapped for scope mounts. You are limited to the included adjustable iron sights; mounting an optic would require significant, irreversible gunsmithing work that I do not recommend for this model.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$793.99