The 38-44 S&W was developed by Ira Albert Paine (1837 – 1889) in 1886 for a S&W Single Action No.3 Target Revolver. Together with the 32-44 S&W, these were low recoil target revolvers. Paine was a very good shot with a variety of weapons and performed all over the US and Europe in trick shooting exhibitions. The bullets were deep seated and were available in two versions, namely a 146gr. bullet with a 20gr. loading for outdoor use and a gallery load with a 70gr. round ball with a 5½gr. load. (Erlmeier, Brandt Ref. 373)