I am looking for a revolver to use as a backup when muzzleloading for deer. What are some good calibers to consider for deer and bigger sized animals? I've been looking hard at the 44 Rem Mag myself but open to any suggestions.
Thanks

The 44 will work well, along with a .45 LC, .41 mag, etc. It all will depend on what you personally prefer, because there are plenty of handguns that will dispatch a deer with minimal fuss. For bigger stuff, stick to calibers that begin with 4. JMHO

gd

For all around use for medium game, the 44 is awfully hard to beat. It allows you to shoot it a lot due to lower ammo cost and, although no longer the "Dirty Harry" animal of the present, it still does a heck of a job on whitetails, mulies, etc. Plus it is available in tons of both new & used guns.

A Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter (.44 Mag) would be my first choice.

SBH best choice! I have killed a ton of deer with my revolvers, .44, 45-70 and .475 and the .44 does just as good a job. Wonderful gun.

In the states I hunt a cartridge revolver would only be legal during the regular firearm season, but your state obviously allows other arrangements. For deer 357 magnum or larger will do. For "bigger sized animals" I'd start with 44 magnum and go up from there as needed. Just one fella's opinion but were I to pack a backup while muzzleloading I'd bring a pistol with the same bore as my primary. That means I'd look at a .54 Lyman Plains Pistol to match my Lyman Great Plains Rifle, and something that would take the same .600 ball I use in my 20 bore fusil. If you're running the usual 209x50 I recall seeing a couple modern inline pistols over the years, but biggest, baddest BP sidearm ever made - the T/C Scout - is lamentably long discontinued. As for repeaters I'm not aware of a state that allows cap and ball revolvers for big game; otherwise a .44 Remington or Colt - especially the Walker - would be interesting if you can get pretty close.

Once upon a time back in the early 80's I saw a 50 cal cap n ball revolver but didn't buy it. I've never seen one since.
The best side arm would probably begin with one that you can shoot well. For some, size doesn't matter in what they can control and shoot well, others may need something more moderate. The wisdom I guess is in realizing where your personal level lies and being happy there.

We can use a cap and ball here in regular rifle season. I have taken several with my Ruger Old Army and round balls. Very effective.

the cheapest route and reliable i might add is the 10mm glock! or the 10 mm 1911. get more shots off faster.

I've killed them with a 22 mag Buntline Scout, However, I agree with GD. Something that starts with a .4X using a WFN lead bullet.

In NM it is not legal to carry a side arm while muzzle loader hunting. I have a Concealed Carry permit, so my choice is usually a 4 5/8" Ruger BH in 41 Mag or 45 Colt. Carried to protect me from vandals! And it is concelaed.

44 mag is great