I know this topic already has been discussed, but I didn’t see my specific question addressed in that thread, which is also nearly 5 years old.
I’m wanting to buy a revolver to carry for CO archery elk to be able to legally fill a rifle Bear tag that is valid in the same season. CO law specifies a minimum of 550 ft lbs at 50 yards to use for big game. While I have little doubt a 45LC cowboy load, or comparable 44 special load would get the job done at around 350 ft lbs, I do intend to follow the rules. My 357 easily meets the requirement, but I would prefer a heavier/larger bullet AND less noise. I would like to work up a load to be 550 - 600 ft lbs at 50 yards. Something in the neighborhood of 300 grains at 1050 fps.
I’m wondering which cartridge would be recommended to minimize hearing damage in the event I fired without protection in place. This thought stems from encountering a bear that I would have shot if I had this revolver last year.
