I would opt for a .44 magnum over a 454 every time.
Yes, I am aware that you can get a variety of 45 Colt loads, over the counter, but that is nowhere near what you can get with a 44.
I reload, so OTC is not an issue for me.
185 grain full wadcutters are super easy to shoot quickly and accurately in a Model 29, and if I was going to carry a N Frame for defense against humans, an easy shooting Wadcutter load makes a lot of sense.
My standard mid-range/medium load is 10 grains Unique with a 240/250 grain cast SWC. It will handle 95% of what you would want to do with a handgun, and be easy on both the shooter and the gun.
The top end load I use is 22 grains H110, with 300-320 grain cast SWCs. I use these sparingly, to save my wrists from further long term damage. The top end load is what I call my Elk/Dinosaur/Mack Truck load. I can personally attest that it will drop big bull elk with ease.
There is quite literally nothing on the planet that I would not hunt with a .44 Magnum, loaded at various levels.