Aye, the difference between a pebble and a bullet is the material it's made out of. And honestly, anything going as fast as a bullet may as well be a bullet, be it launched through magic or a gun. But that's why Malakaus wears armor, and knows how to use it. Oh sure, it seems like everyone has magic strong enough to nullify plate, but just as some people master a sword, Malakaus has mastered his armor. All he needs is to get his old armor fixed up and I can ensure you that he'd last much longer then he did last time.