No, some of us still think you can kill something with a 357.
A .357 with 158 gr XTP HP's over 15-16 gr of 110 comes awfully close to the original 30-30 loads when used out of a carbine.
If you want penetration the 158 XTPHP works really well.
I have some hard cast loads and some 180 NPT's around too but the XTP's work well at the velocities they are designed for.
I would say that an Ithaca Ultralight deerslayer, especially a 20 gauge has a lot of appeal for what you are describing and it is a lot easier to pot the occasional grouse or rabbit.
A slug is formidable on bear inside 75 yards,and it is somewhat faster to run a pump gun, easier to reload too.
