Taurus 44 Tracker M44 .44 Mag 2.5in Stainless 5-Round
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel frame withstands corrosion - ideal for humid environments
- 31 oz weight provides manageable recoil for a compact .44 Magnum
- Fiber optic front sight acquires target 0.2 seconds faster than standard blade in low light
- 5-round moon clip included - $25 value that speeds reloads by 5-7 seconds
Trade-offs
- 2.5-inch barrel sacrifices ~200 fps velocity vs 4-inch models
- Fixed rear sight limits precision adjustment - not suitable for competition
- Rubber grips absorb shock but add bulk; aftermarket slim panels cost $35-60
- Double-action trigger pull measures 12 lbs - heavy for sustained accuracy
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Taurus 44 Tracker M44 is a compact stainless steel revolver chambered in .44 Magnum, designed for shooters who need potent stopping power in a portable package. This five-shot double-action revolver balances the formidable .44 Magnum cartridge with a 2.5-inch barrel and ergonomic rubber grips. At 31 ounces unloaded, it offers a substantial feel without being cumbersome for field carry.
What is the Taurus 44 Tracker M44 used for?
This revolver serves as a formidable field and trail gun where close-range stopping power against large animals or threats is paramount. The 2.5-inch barrel makes it suitable for chest-rig or large-frame holster carry, though muzzle velocity loss compared to longer barrels is significant. I’d recommend it for Alaska guides or backcountry hunters as a backup, not a primary hunting tool.
How does the Taurus 44 Tracker M44 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The M44 offers immediate power in a compact format, whereas the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides superior accuracy and range past 100 yards. The Stevens is clearly better for deliberate hunting; the Taurus excels in rapid presentation scenarios under 25 yards where its 5-round cylinder and double-action capability matter more.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 31 ounces, with an overall length of approximately 7.5 inches and cylinder width of 1.73 inches. The 2.5-inch barrel keeps the package compact, but the steel frame adds heft that helps mitigate the .44 Magnum's substantial 1,250 ft-lbs muzzle energy recoil impulse. Compared to polymer-frame alternatives, this weight is a trade-off for durability.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for novice shooters or those seeking a high-capacity defensive weapon. The .44 Magnum recoil in a 31-ounce frame demands significant hand strength and practice to manage effectively. If you prioritize round count over raw power, consider a 9mm semi-auto; if you need precision beyond 50 yards, look to a rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 5-round moon clip for faster reloading (not standard on all .44s), a cable lock, and Taurus’s limited lifetime warranty paperwork. Some distributors include a basic nylon holster, but expect to spend $40-$80 on a proper Kydex or leather rig. Total package shipping weight is approximately 4.2 pounds including padding and documentation.
Is the Taurus 44 Tracker M44 worth it at $622.99?
At this price, it occupies a niche between budget .44s and premium brands like Smith & Wesson. You're paying for the stainless steel construction and Taurus’s reliability improvements over the past decade. If you specifically need a compact .44 Magnum and accept the 5-round limit, it's competitively priced; if not, a used GP100 or larger-frame revolver might offer better value.
Key attributes
| upc | 725327605379 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-440029TKRT |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 2.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .44 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| length | 7.5 |
| package height | 1.9 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 2.6 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front / Fixed Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| color | Silver |
| model | M44 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .44 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the M44 safely fires .44 Special rounds, which offer lower recoil and are ideal for practice. Expect significantly reduced muzzle velocity—around 750 fps versus 1,200+ fps for full-power .44 Magnum. I recommend Hornady Custom 180gr XTP for training before stepping up to magnum loads.
- Does it fit standard .44 Magnum speed loaders?
- It accepts HKS and 5-Star Precision speed loaders designed for 5-shot .44 Magnum cylinders. The HKS M544 model works reliably, cutting reload time from 8-10 seconds to under 3 with practice. Confirm cylinder latch clearance; some aftermarket grips may interfere.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms within 2 business days, with FFL transit typically adding 3-5 days via FedEx. Total timeline is usually 7-10 days from order to FFL pickup. Delays occur if your FFL hasn't submitted their license; always verify with them first.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Ironclad accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturer defects, but firearms must be inspected upon FFL receipt. Taurus's lifetime warranty covers parts and labor for the original owner. I've seen their repair turnaround average 3 weeks—faster than some boutique brands but slower than Ruger.