Winchester 44 mag trouble

[bayouvol]

I am looking at an old Winchester rifle in 44 mag to buy. The only thing is that it will not load 44 specials. I thought it should feed both. Am I wrong?

[Caster]

Some levers are picky. The shorter overall length often causes issues. The lifter doesn't support it enough to guide it into the chamber and they like to hit the edge of the barrel.


It's really a non issue with a cartridge like a .44 magnum. Buying or trimming cases for 44 special is a waste of time and resources. You could just as easily load the 44 magnum to Special velocities and retain the overall length of the longer cartridge.

Studious handloading can solve SO MANY firearms related issues.

[musicman]

It's really a non issue with a cartridge like a .44 magnum. Buying or trimming cases for 44 special is a waste of time and resources. You could just as easily load the 44 magnum to Special velocities and retain the overall length of the longer cartridge.

Studious handloading can solve SO MANY firearms related issues.

100% spot on. Not only can you just download magnum cases, but you also get the benefit of not having to worry about cleaning the "carbon ring" left behind by shooting specials. I only shoot 357 brass in my 357 guns, whether full power or light wadcutter loads. I simply don't have any 44spl to mess with, just mag.

[bayouvol]

Thanks guys, I just have a 44 special revolver and was trying to buy a carbine that would shoot both.

[Caster]

Thanks guys, I just have a 44 special revolver and was trying to buy a carbine that would shoot both.

Okay, that makes more sense.

...how attached to the pistol are you?

[xtriggerman]

You said "old" Winchester. If you mean the model 94 with a stamped follower, I would not be surprised if it had feeding issues with the mags. Those guns were notorious for fail to feed issues in the full length cartridges let alone the much shorter 44mag/special. Replacement followers were in such demand back in the day Winchester was finally forced to spend the big bucks for a decent cast steel follower. The 94AE's were far better 44's due to the better follower when it came to feeding the shorter cartridges. 

  The old stamped followers were pretty hard and could crack down by the pivot pin hole. So if its jamming at all, don't lever force it. Strictly use what it likes.