This might be the wrong place to post this topic, but I thought I'd give it a go.

Can anyone tell me whether these guns are built to take the hottest 44 loads?  I've heard they cannot.

Also, what have you heard about Winchester vs. Marlin?  Which may be a better gun?

By hottest load do you mean factory loaded +p type? If so, yes they will shoot +p without probems. OR do you mean WECSOG hot rodded maxed out buffalo killing loads made on the reloading press that you just got for Christmas? If your reloading, my advice is to start low and work your way up, watching for pressure signs on the brass.
FWIW, I like the Marlins.

Quoted: By hottest load do you mean factory loaded +p type? If so, yes they will shoot +p without probems. OR do you mean WECSOG hot rodded maxed out buffalo killing loads made on the reloading press that you just got for Christmas? If your reloading, my advice is to start low and work your way up, watching for pressure signs on the brass. FWIW, I like the Marlins.

What Slacker said.
GLOCK-23

+1 I like the Marlins also, I like the action and to me they have a better fit

They are all built to handle factory loads, and probably a little more as all manufacturers have to build their product with a safety margin. For me, going over what I get from a factory load, in properly built handloads is fine. If you go over that you had better be watching for any signs of pressure. You are, after all, using a handgun cartridge.

-The Ruger is reliable but I don't care for the look.
-The Winchester action had a rough spot during the ejection.
 This probably would have smoothed itself out after 300-500 rounds though.
-The Marlin fit me the best and the action was smooth all the way through.

Have Fun!
Terry in NC