Hi all, new to forums. I recently bought a rossi 972 6" 357mag abd took it deer hunting in southern illinois. 2015's season i shot a nice sized buck at around 25yards using some cheap blazer brass jhp's. Lung shot, went through one rib and the cup completely fragmented vaporizing the lungs and the core went through the top of the shoulder. Deer died on spot but i doubt it would have penetrated the shoulder shot directly. If you can keep shots behind the shoulder the xtp should perform well in 158 grain bullets. The expansion velocity for the 158grain xtp-hp is stated between 800-1400fps. The 180grainer was designed mostly for rifles with an expansion velocity of 1200-1600 fps. Unless you keep your shots in 25 or less yards the 180 is essentialy hard ball. Revolver hunting is very challenging. Practice alot and be safe. Happy hunting.
