The Ruger Old Army for deer hunting: 45 cal or 50 cal?

[oregon45]

I'm considering hunting Blacktail deer next year with my Ruger Old Army. In looking at the revolver's performance I've decided to send it to David Clements for modification: either deepening the existing 45 Caliber cylinder to accept Clements' bullet design, or having him convert the gun to a 5-shot 50 caliber. Am I better off sticking with the 45, or stepping up to the 50?

Clements lists the 45 caliber modified cylinder as delivering a 260gr bullet at 960fps. He lists the 50 Caliber conversion as a 250gr bullet at 1150fps. In terms of performance on game--in short, straight-line penetration--is the bigger frontal diameter of the 50 caliber bullet worth the cost of the conversion?

The ballistics on the 45 Caliber modification are pretty close what I run in my 44 Specials and light 45 Colts; I have confidence in those numbers (250gr at 950fps) on deer-sized game. Just wondering if the extra diameter of the 50 cal is worth the cost.

Anybody else hunt with their Ruger Old Army? If so, how has it worked for you?

[Squatch]

I don't think a blacktail will know the difference between the 45 and 50. Having grown up in the Willamette Valley (Salem) and hunting the coast range, shots on the deer are pretty close affairs. I'm pretty sure the 45 will pass right through. Having said that, I always thought the 50 from David sounded pretty nice. Sorry I know this isn't much help in deciding between the two calibers. Another thought is as busy as David is and how he batch does the 50's, my bet would be you don't have by deer season 2017. I have been in line for work since August, and hope by June to get the work started.

[oregon45]

Thanks Squatch, I lived in Salem for 8 years and still work there; grew up in the valley as well. Didn't even know you could see a deer more than 100 yards away before I drew a tag in Eastern Oregon