At one time the 357 was all the rage now hardly a thread about it. I admit I have let my 1911's pretty much take their places as working pistols and carry pieces. How did I get along with just an old flat top Ruger 4 5/8 barreled single action for all those years? That and a New Model with a 6 1/2 inch barrel did just about all my centerfire pistol chores for years. Even for a carry pistol the old Flat top wasn't that hard to lug around.
Coonan and Desert Eagle have been replaced by 10mm Auto. It also took some sales from .357 Magnum revolvers, but .357 revolvers are still selling. Colt has helped by introducing Python and King Cobra revolvers.
I recently started getting into revolvers as of now I have a nice 28-2 and a 19-5. I really need to get target grips for that model 19. I need to find a model 27 next, I don't know why I guess just to have one.
Originally Posted by Bricktop
Then STFU. The rest of your statement is superflous bullshit with no real bearing on this discussion other than to massage your own ego.
I recently started getting into revolvers as of now I have a nice 28-2 and a 19-5. I really need to get target grips for that model 19. I need to find a model 27 next, I don't know why I guess just to have one.
Functionally, the 27 is obsolete (designed at a time when metallurgy wouldn't support a K-Frame .357 Magnum), but I agree it would be cool to own a nice specimen of one.
At one time the 357 was all the rage now hardly a thread about it. I admit I have let my 1911's pretty much take their places as working pistols and carry pieces. How did I get along with just an old flat top Ruger 4 5/8 barreled single action for all those years? That and a New Model with a 6 1/2 inch barrel did just about all my centerfire pistol chores for years. Even for a carry pistol the old Flat top wasn't that hard to lug around.
You seem to have .357 confused with .41 Magnum. From 10mm days I seen to recall in Winchester Silvertip rendition ballistics of both 10mm and .41 Magnum are identical. The boomers will say they can "hot rod" .41 using reloads I say why not just get 10.9mm Magnum?
[quote=viking]Yeah that’s why Colt come out with the Python and King Cobra again. Lever guns don’t stick on the shelf long either. Not to mention Kimber and Henry.
The revolver I want is an R-8.
Congratulations, that is really bold move: eight shots of .357 plus rails for optics and light/laser mounting. Very advanced design one can almost move into da hooood with that.🤣
I wish I'd kept my Dan Wesson .357 Magnum from the 1980s. I had three barrels for it. Oddly, though, no one made aftermarket grips for it. Not that there was anything wrong with the factory grips, but they were large, target style, grips, and when I had the snub barrel on it, I would have liked a round butt grip.
I did have a 4" Dan Wesson back in the 80s shot it very well! Always wanted another one. Guys going to be set up at the same gun show, next Saturday, if it still available . I should take a better look at it!
I was looking at a 4" Dam Wesson 357 yesterday, combat wood grips. He was firm at $550.00, I offered 450.00 but it was very nice shape!
For some reason prices for Dan Wesson revolvers nearly doubled or doubled in last couple of years. Some years ago same happened to older S&W revolvers, quite sudden almost like all of the sudden Elon Musk announced he will start collecting S&W revolvers.🙄 Back to topic, you might be able to find nice High Standard Sentinel. 357 like MkII for $450, gun whore geezers are less likely be aware of those.
I recently started getting into revolvers as of now I have a nice 28-2 and a 19-5. I really need to get target grips for that model 19. I need to find a model 27 next, I don't know why I guess just to have one.
Functionally, the 27 is obsolete (designed at a time when metallurgy wouldn't support a K-Frame .357 Magnum), but I agree it would be cool to own a nice specimen of one.
Whut? You been hanging around with slavek again?
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
At one time the 357 was all the rage now hardly a thread about it. I admit I have let my 1911's pretty much take their places as working pistols and carry pieces. How did I get along with just an old flat top Ruger 4 5/8 barreled single action for all those years? That and a New Model with a 6 1/2 inch barrel did just about all my centerfire pistol chores for years. Even for a carry pistol the old Flat top wasn't that hard to lug around.
It seems to be doing pretty well around here. The new gun sections seem to have several double action varieties for sale. It also seems the lever guns are also fairly popular.
At one time, it was thought the Wonder-Nines would kill it off. But, it managed to weather that period.
I still like the ability of the mild 38 SPL loads up through the Magnums. It obviously lacks the diameter of the heavier hitters, but still has its place place in my rack.
I am beginning to experiment with the Hammer Bullets 150 gr Jack Hammer and the CEB 165 gr HGS. There is definitely an ample amount of various types and weights of bullets for it.
Probably won’t shoot it until I get a dot installed but the r8 I just picked up has a phenomenal trigger, makes my no dash 686 trigger feel like garbage.
I almost got my hands on a four inch Colt Lawman Mk III (basically the Trooper Mk III with fixed sights) a couple months back. The guy selling it on gunbroker had it up for a few cycles of auctions, and it hadn't sold. It was pristine. Looked new, right out of the box. I offered the guy a low ball bid, and he came back with a price halfway between mine and his previous starting bid. I accepted. He never followed through.
I kept asking him to make that offer officially to me via gunbroker (as the rules there require) so that I could accept it, and pay for it. He just ignored me, and never took it off auction. Next thing I know, it's got a bid for his original starting price. He just decided to back out of the deal when his starting bid was met, and wouldn't respond to my messages about our deal.
The .357 isn't dead. It's just that anything and everything to be said about it has been said ad nauseum. Now it just soldiers along going about its business, an icon that has achieved benchmark status that doesn't need a lot of gum-flapping to justify its existence.
"You can lead a man to logic, but you cannot make him think." Joe Harz "Always certain, often right." Keith McCafferty
Looking at the latest atf data I could find, it appears that a couple years ago, for every 357 sold, nineteen 9mms got handed across the counter. Categorize that as you wish.
At one time the 357 was all the rage now hardly a thread about it. I admit I have let my 1911's pretty much take their places as working pistols and carry pieces. How did I get along with just an old flat top Ruger 4 5/8 barreled single action for all those years? That and a New Model with a 6 1/2 inch barrel did just about all my centerfire pistol chores for years. Even for a carry pistol the old Flat top wasn't that hard to lug around.
For "just about dead" it is pretty lively around here. It's not the .357 that is just about dead, it's whatever is in front of the muzzle.
... and I've never owned a 1911. That's a situation I mean to rectify butI'm picky .. the specific gun I want hasn't been in stock since before Covid. I've waited. I'll continue to wait. Compromise usually leads to buying a thing I didn't quite want, being unhappy with it, selling it at a loss, then getting what I wanted in the first place. I'm learning to skip the intermediate mistake.
Anyone who thinks there's two sides to everything hasn't met a M�bius strip.
Looking at the latest atf data I could find, it appears that a couple years ago, for every 357 sold, nineteen 9mms got handed across the counter. Categorize that as you wish.
I don't doubt that. Particularly during the panic periods' record sales times, everyone wants round capacity. I also bet during "normal" periods the $600'ish semi's outsell the $800 revolvers by a substantial amount.
There still must be substantial sells numbers in the 357's though. Thankful even the above .40 single actions are still hanging in there.
I don't think the .357 will "die" during our lifetimes; but I do see its popularity declining.
Lots of people packing compact 9mms now for people self defense who would otherwise be carrying a .357 40 years ago.
Lots of people packing .44 mag or 10mm for woods self defense who would have been packing a .357 long ago.
Spent some time out roaming the woods mushroom hunting today. Didn't see anything to shoot (or any mushrooms); but I had a Ruger SP101 .327 and a SW 69 .44 mag on me. I don't even own a .357.
I have a M19 4" & a M19 6" a M27 4" and a new model Colt Python 4.25" barrel Dick Thompson made me some 194 grain powder coated bullets that I'm getting 1268 FPS out of the Python. A some 175 grain powder coated hollow point that is going 1400+.
Should get the job done
I got banned on another web site for a debate that happened on this site. That's a first
The old .357 ain't going anywhere, is alive and well.
I like my Premier Grade FA 97. I had to get a higher front sight for the 175 and 180's I'm shooting. Freedom Arms knew exactly what I needed. Swap out was quick with an Allen wrench.
These guns are works of art, lock up like a bank vault and shoot accordingly.
Sorta expensive but worth it, IMO. They're in a class by themselves for factory guns. It would take some serious bucks from a top builder to equal these and I'm not sure those would be more accurate.
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
Looking at the latest atf data I could find, it appears that a couple years ago, for every 357 sold, nineteen 9mms got handed across the counter. Categorize that as you wish.
The answer to this is quite simple. The market in the U.S. and Europe is flooded with plastic moderately to inexpensive 9mm pistols. The 9 was and is a NATO round and so had immediate inroads to our market including military, law enforcement etc. Such pistol designs will not shoot rimmed cartridges so the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels. So are there more plastic cheaper pistols sold or pricier revolvers ?
Wonder what the average age is for anyone owning one revolver. That age surely goes up quite a bit for owning more than one.
If the .32s are still going along just fine, the .357 is far and above them. It's not going anywhere soon. Now, 30 years from now when we are all buried, remains to be seen.
Originally Posted by Dirtfarmer
The old .357 ain't going anywhere, is alive and well.
I like my Premier Grade FA 97. I had to get a higher front sight for the 175 and 180's I'm shooting. Freedom Arms knew exactly what I needed. Swap out was quick with an Allen wrench.
These guns are works of art, lock up like a bank vault and shoot accordingly.
Sorta expensive but worth it, IMO. They're in a class by themselves for factory guns. It would take some serious bucks from a top builder to equal these and I'm not sure those would be more accurate.
DF
Yep, I love my FA97 in .327 & 32H&R. Very well made and a joy to shoot. Not exactly in the 357 class, but 130grs at 1400fps sure does a lot of work a 9mm would do.
Looking at the latest atf data I could find, it appears that a couple years ago, for every 357 sold, nineteen 9mms got handed across the counter. Categorize that as you wish.
The answer to this is quite simple. The market in the U.S. and Europe is flooded with plastic moderately to inexpensive 9mm pistols. The 9 was and is a NATO round and so had immediate inroads to our market including military, law enforcement etc. Such pistol designs will not shoot rimmed cartridges so the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels. So are there more plastic cheaper pistols sold or pricier revolvers ?
Rick
It is preferred cartridge weak and gullible affectionately referred to as "Square Heads", ready to save the world from terrorists and mayhem. They ride trigger reset, wear beards and surround themselves with "fannypacks". Calibers like .357 Mag and .44 Mag are for the more sophisticated and well to do young folk, dedicated but smaller following. The .44 Soecial, .32, .38 S&W,.... are typical Geezer calibers. I would have picked up that $750 Model 396 Airweight .44, I know good thing when I see it and have no problem being called a Geezer.
Such pistol designs will not shoot rimmed cartridges so the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels.
No, not quite correct. You've forgotten the Desert Eagle and Coonan Model B.
When discussing the general pistol/revolver market Desert Eagle and Coonan are non or almost invisible players. Coonan was a decent concept and built by a guy who could do it, Dan Coonan, then when he finally saw the handwriting on the wall ( meager sales ) he bailed and sold out to Mr. Bill Davis the king of zamak/pot metal and the funeral was around the corner.
...the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels. So are there more plastic cheaper pistols sold or pricier revolvers ?
Rick
A Marlin 1894 lever action is a pretty solid gun in .357 Mag as well.
I wish I never sold my 1980s Rossi Model 92. It was an exact replica of the Winchester 92 in .357 Magnum. The ones they make today have a safety lever on top. Didn't realize they would be unavailable in the future, or I likely would have kept it. It was pretty cool to have a Model 92 in .357 Magnum.
I've a pair, a 5" and a 4", they're awesome revolvers.
That’s a nice revolver. I’d like to have a 5” 8 shot with a full lug or the heavier M29 contour. Would fit nicely in my leather for my 5” 44 and 45 and be a handy ranch gun.
Such pistol designs will not shoot rimmed cartridges so the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels.
No, not quite correct. You've forgotten the Desert Eagle and Coonan Model B.
Also, at one time the Parker semi auto. I have never owned any of the 357 mag semi autos. The grip never felt right for me, on the ones that I handled. And, I was skeptical of reliable function.
...the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels. So are there more plastic cheaper pistols sold or pricier revolvers ?
Rick
A Marlin 1894 lever action is a pretty solid gun in .357 Mag as well.
I wish I never sold my 1980s Rossi Model 92. It was an exact replica of the Winchester 92 in .357 Magnum. The ones they make today have a safety lever on top. Didn't realize they would be unavailable in the future, or I likely would have kept it. It was pretty cool to have a Model 92 in .357 Magnum.
I've got one of them early Rossi 92s has a saddle ring no kind of safety and this was even before they put that stupid puma symbol on it they did for a short time...
The .357 isn't dead. It's just that anything and everything to be said about it has been said ad nauseum. Now it just soldiers along going about its business, an icon that has achieved benchmark status that doesn't need a lot of gum-flapping to justify its existence.
That was my thought, exactly.
Not much interested in another 357 revolver, but I'd love to get my hands on an old saddle ring Rossi 92.
I've a pair, a 5" and a 4", they're awesome revolvers.
I have the L-frame version of the Pro Series in a 4" barrel. It is a very well put together revolver.
This old M19 6" has been with me for a long time now. It's pretty danged slick.
Very nice.
Are those Herrett's stocks on the bottom revolver?
Ahrends Retro Target. Actually both of those .357's wear Ahrends stocks now. I surely wish that company was still in business.
I hear you, MOGC.
BTW, for other custom revolver grips fans:
I spoke with Robin at Herrett's today. They are no longer selling custom checkered stocks. I was wanting a set like those on their website and, if you read Mackay_Sagebrush's posts, like those on the Model 19 he gave his daughter for her wilderness guide trips. The lady who had been working at Herrett's for 42 years passed away unexpectedly recently. She had been the sole architect of the custom grips since the elderly gentleman that proceeded her passed away.
Robin told me they had tried to train several people under Dee over the years, but they wouldn't last long enough to become proficient and now they have no one else to do the custom work.
Customers can now only get the smooth stocks.
Sad, the passing of artisans. RIP, Dee.
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
I sold my 686 no-dash 4" on here last year, then I was left with a bit of .38 Spcl and .357 ammo. Sooo....I bought a Colt King Cobra 2". Looks like I'm keeping one for good in one form or another.
"To compel a man to furnish funds for the propagation of ideas he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical."-- Thomas Jefferson
Interesting thread. When out hiking , fishing or hunting, I am usually packing a Ruger Bisley 4.5 “ in 45Lc, or a 44 special bulldog. Lately thinking what might be ideal for this , would be a 3 or 4 inch stainless 357 . Many times out for deer or elk , I run into grouse , where I could also pack some lower powered 38 spl ammo for them, but loaded with some 180 gr. hardcast for defense. Yes, another excuse for a new revolver !
The 357 mag is not dead in my house. I like my revolvers and my carbine, which does an excellent job with a 357 mag as well.
NRA LIFE MEMBER GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS ESPECIALLY THE SNIPERS! "Suppose you were an idiot And suppose you were a member of Congress... But I repeat myself." -Mark Twain
For me the .357 became attractive when I moved back west to the high desert. Now mostly I use .38 Specials, but the magnums can be fun on long shots on predators. I think the ideal place for the .357 magnum is actually in a carbine, it's a perfect light carbine round. Just enough to take care of deer, bear, or a murder-kitty at close ranges, yet small enough it can still leave a little meat on a cotton tail.
Local gun store is finally getting the new Marlin 1894's available, both .44 and .357. They only had a .44 Magnum the day I was there but I was impressed by the wood to metal fit and very crisp albeit a tad heavy trigger pull. Action was smooth for a brand new rifle as well.
Didn't want to start spurting arterial blood in the store so I didn't run my finger too hard inside the loading port or action but a light digital exam of the various edges showed them to be no sharper than some older JM Marlins I've had.
Best draw was the price, they're listing them for several bucks under $1000, everybody else around here is asking mid-1100 dollar range or more.
I have no actual need for a .357 Magnum carbine but since the round is apparently in hospice care I feel a strong humanitarian urge to keep it alive by buying one.
Gunnery, gunnery, gunnery. Hit the target, all else is twaddle!
Keep thinking it's dead. More rounds for me on the shelf then.
The reason I started this thread , I went to two different Academy's and no 357 and only a few 38 Special rounds on the shelf. There was however a 10 round pack of snake loads for $23. The shooting range had some actual 357 ammo but at $51. for 50 seemed a bit high. I reload all my 38 and 357 ammo so I don't have a real grasp of the current market. It is nice to see the number of people on the forum that are still fans. My 357 collection has dwindled to a 4" 586 which does all I need but it is seldom in the truck or on my hip anymore. My two 1911's are almost my most carried handguns along with my fishing pistol, a 38 P85 Taurus loaded with shot loads. Back in the 70's my 1911 was the dresser drawer gun and various 357 pistols got all the fun. From snakes to deer. Then I went off track and started using a Ruger 45 Colt a lot. Then the 45 ACP pretty much took over. I like the round and revolvers but I just moved on to bigger bores.
Keep thinking it's dead. More rounds for me on the shelf then.
The reason I started this thread , I went to two different Academy's and no 357 and only a few 38 Special rounds on the shelf. There was however a 10 round pack of snake loads for $23. The shooting range had some actual 357 ammo but at $51. for 50 seemed a bit high. I reload all my 38 and 357 ammo so I don't have a real grasp of the current market. It is nice to see the number of people on the forum that are still fans. My 357 collection has dwindled to a 4" 586 which does all I need but it is seldom in the truck or on my hip anymore. My two 1911's are almost my most carried handguns along with my fishing pistol, a 38 P85 Taurus loaded with shot loads. Back in the 70's my 1911 was the dresser drawer gun and various 357 pistols got all the fun. From snakes to deer. Then I went off track and started using a Ruger 45 Colt a lot. Then the 45 ACP pretty much took over. I like the round and revolvers but I just moved on to bigger bores.
Seems to me that no handgun ammunition aside from 9/40/45 is available at what I consider reasonable prices. Of course it’s economy due to those being the most common cartridges in use. But if you’re going to seriously shoot any revolver cartridges you’d best reload or have plenty of money. I looked for some 41 Mag for a family member a while back. At $79 a box for what I could find I could have been fully equipped to load for it including a bullet mold for the cost of 3 boxes.
Seems to me that no handgun ammunition aside from 9/40/45 is available at what I consider reasonable prices. Of course it’s economy due to those being the most common cartridges in use. But if you’re going to seriously shoot any revolver cartridges you’d best reload or have plenty of money. I looked for some 41 Mag for a family member a while back. At $79 a box for what I could find I could have been fully equipped to load for it including a bullet mold for the cost of 3 boxes.
Reloading is the only way I can justify (fiscally) shooting several of the calibers/cartridges that I do.
Local gun store is finally getting the new Marlin 1894's available, both .44 and .357. They only had a .44 Magnum the day I was there but I was impressed by the wood to metal fit and very crisp albeit a tad heavy trigger pull. Action was smooth for a brand new rifle as well.
Didn't want to start spurting arterial blood in the store so I didn't run my finger too hard inside the loading port or action but a light digital exam of the various edges showed them to be no sharper than some older JM Marlins I've had.
Best draw was the price, they're listing them for several bucks under $1000, everybody else around here is asking mid-1100 dollar range or more.
I have no actual need for a .357 Magnum carbine but since the round is apparently in hospice care I feel a strong humanitarian urge to keep it alive by buying one.
It's so giving of you to do your part. 😜
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
I shoot a 5" SW 686 plus and fav load is the 200 grain WFN-Hard Cast at 1,200 mv.
The 357 is very much alive and well in my stable of guns.
Just a note that Mackay’s ammo for the 357 170 grain Keith SWC at 1350 fps us nice also
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
The 357 mag steps into sort of another league out of carbine length barrels. This is especially true if you reload and are picky with your bullets. I’ve loaded a couple rifles year ago with everything from 2400, H110 and RE7 and can tell you the package is an honest deer rifle from 100 yds to a bit more. Some rifle cranks I’ve known swear a hot loaded 357 carbine delivers enough energy even to 150 yds. I knew these older men, knew their experience and believed them.
Now there are all kinds of people who will swear with no actual physical proof that the S&W K frames can’t handle 40-45K of pressure but the old US Border Patrol used to put 30K stiff rounds through their 19’s, year after year. I realize the famous Jim Jordan shot a model 27 N farme but if you ever saw the size of his hands the 27 looked like a J frame. So if you’re the type the shoots this kind of regimen in your K frames then I guess the L frame is your ticket. Same grip size but heavier frame and yoke. This was factory’s answer to the buying public’s fear of worn out worthless K frames, believe it or not. When I was in the business about 60-70% of my work load was revolvers and especially K frames. I took care of rental guns at two indoor ranges and have seen my share of abused handguns including cracked Sig 9mm frames, and yes cracked K frames in way of the barrel threads but not that common. Otherwise K frames with lots of work at high pressure loads do stretch. It’s actually pressure related frame distortion originating from the top strap. So you’ll get varying degrees of end shake but this is far from the death of the gun, depending on measurements. Any decent mechanic can tighten the revolver up again and a new lease on life.
I cannot speak personally as to the durability of the L-frames. Though, it appears that they live up to their sturdy reputation.
I can say, I have found little to dislike about the 686 Plus's that I have in various barrel lengths. I like the shorter cylinder rotation in double action, the single action trigger pull, and the cylinder length.
I've had two L-Frame S&W .357 Mag revolvers. Both of them were Model 586s. One was a six inch polished factory nickel, and the other was a four inch dull blue (black?). The latter was a product of the Performance Center at S&W. I've sold both. Just couldn't warm up to the L-Frame, for some reason.
The 357 mag steps into sort of another league out of carbine length barrels. This is especially true if you reload and are picky with your bullets. I’ve loaded a couple rifles year ago with everything from 2400, H110 and RE7 and can tell you the package is an honest deer rifle from 100 yds to a bit more. Some rifle cranks I’ve known swear a hot loaded 357 carbine delivers enough energy even to 150 yds. I knew these older men, knew their experience and believed them.
Now there are all kinds of people who will swear with no actual physical proof that the S&W K frames can’t handle 40-45K of pressure but the old US Border Patrol used to put 30K stiff rounds through their 19’s, year after year. I realize the famous Jim Jordan shot a model 27 N farme but if you ever saw the size of his hands the 27 looked like a J frame. So if you’re the type the shoots this kind of regimen in your K frames then I guess the L frame is your ticket. Same grip size but heavier frame and yoke. This was factory’s answer to the buying public’s fear of worn out worthless K frames, believe it or not. When I was in the business about 60-70% of my work load was revolvers and especially K frames. I took care of rental guns at two indoor ranges and have seen my share of abused handguns including cracked Sig 9mm frames, and yes cracked K frames in way of the barrel threads but not that common. Otherwise K frames with lots of work at high pressure loads do stretch. It’s actually pressure related frame distortion originating from the top strap. So you’ll get varying degrees of end shake but this is far from the death of the gun, depending on measurements. Any decent mechanic can tighten the revolver up again and a new lease on life.
Rick
Bill Jordan is credited with pitching the idea of a K-frame .357 to S&W. Bill Jordan worked with S&W to design the Combat Magnum .357 K-frame. This was later named Model 19 when S&W began numbering their models. Jordan carried and used the K-frame on duty and in his shooting exhibitions. Skeeter Skelton carried a 5" Model 27 N-frame for much of his career. Maybe that is who you were thinking of.
Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.
An old friend of mine in Texas was a motorcycle cop in California. He carried a 27 I believe. But the interesting thing was his duty gear, he had a custom speed loader pouch that held 4 instead of 2.
Absolutely. If you have a 357, its value is almost nothing. Heck a real decent S&W is at most worth $50. But since I’m a nice guy, I’m here to help you poor guys that are stuck with that junk.
I prefer classic. Semper Fi I used to run with the hare. Now I'm envious of the tortoise and I do my own stunts but rarely intentionally
The 357 mag steps into sort of another league out of carbine length barrels. This is especially true if you reload and are picky with your bullets. I’ve loaded a couple rifles year ago with everything from 2400, H110 and RE7 and can tell you the package is an honest deer rifle from 100 yds to a bit more. Some rifle cranks I’ve known swear a hot loaded 357 carbine delivers enough energy even to 150 yds. I knew these older men, knew their experience and believed them.
Now there are all kinds of people who will swear with no actual physical proof that the S&W K frames can’t handle 40-45K of pressure but the old US Border Patrol used to put 30K stiff rounds through their 19’s, year after year. I realize the famous Jim Jordan shot a model 27 N farme but if you ever saw the size of his hands the 27 looked like a J frame. So if you’re the type the shoots this kind of regimen in your K frames then I guess the L frame is your ticket. Same grip size but heavier frame and yoke. This was factory’s answer to the buying public’s fear of worn out worthless K frames, believe it or not. When I was in the business about 60-70% of my work load was revolvers and especially K frames. I took care of rental guns at two indoor ranges and have seen my share of abused handguns including cracked Sig 9mm frames, and yes cracked K frames in way of the barrel threads but not that common. Otherwise K frames with lots of work at high pressure loads do stretch. It’s actually pressure related frame distortion originating from the top strap. So you’ll get varying degrees of end shake but this is far from the death of the gun, depending on measurements. Any decent mechanic can tighten the revolver up again and a new lease on life.
Rick
Bill Jordan is credited with pitching the idea of a K-frame .357 to S&W. Bill Jordan worked with S&W to design the Combat Magnum .357 K-frame. This was later named Model 19 when S&W began numbering their models. Jordan carried and used the K-frame on duty and in his shooting exhibitions. Skeeter Skelton carried a 5" Model 27 N-frame for much of his career. Maybe that is who you were thinking of.
I met and talked with Bill Jordan at the Shot Show in Vegas years ago. I was with an old time writer Dean Grennel and Wes Ugalde and Jordan signed his book. In shaking his hand you cannot ignore the size so it’s no wonder he cut trigger guards on K’s. He explained his input and work with S&W and the revolvers. The issued PB guns at that time according to him were K frames but he shot the 27 as his favorite for competition etc. and alluded to the fact that might have carried it on the job wink wink when necessary. Anyway it was years ago and that’s how I recall it. As for Skeeter are you sure you’re not thinking Charlie Askins ? Of course at my age my memory can resemble fog lifting, drifting and thinning out.
Rick
Last edited by Woodpecker; 04/14/24. Reason: Addendum
Askins did indeed like the Colt guns and that is what he bought for issue revolvers when he was in charge of such at the Border Patrol. Skeeter was an S&W man and his 5" M27 became his favorite. Due to his writings that particular setup developed a cult-like following among pistolaros of the time. Jordan developed the Combat Magnum with S&W which later became the Model 19. The N-frame was too heavy to pack for a long shift. That Combat Magnum M19 was his pick for a duty revolver. Jordan shot S&W K-frames in his shooting exhibitions. He mostly used wax bullets fired by a primer in the .38 Special.
Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.
Askins did indeed like the Colt guns and that is what he bought for issue revolvers when he was in charge of such at the Border Patrol. Skeeter was an S&W man and his 5" M27 became his favorite. Due to his writings that particular setup developed a cult-like following among pistolaros of the time. Jordan developed the Combat Magnum with S&W which later became the Model 19. The N-frame was too heavy to pack for a long shift. That Combat Magnum M19 was his pick for a duty revolver. Jordan shot S&W K-frames in his shooting exhibitions. He mostly used wax bullets fired by a primer in the .38 Special.
Back in the 1980s, I used to shoot wax, primer-powered, bullets a lot. Allows you to shoot in your home or (if you don't live on a lot of land) backyard. I'd melt the wax in Altoids cans, then, before it hardened, I'd press the primed case mouths into them. When it cooled, viola, wax bullet cartridges, like full wadcutters made of wax.
PS You need to open up the primer hole in the primer pocket a bit to prevent lockup of the revolver due to primers backing out.
Also, real bees wax works best, since it has a higher melt point than the stuff they make candles from nowadays.
In case anyone's interested, all this talk of .357's made me go out haunting the local pawn and gun shops.
At La Familia in Hollywood, FL, a local pawn shop that bought the gun shop where I used to do a lot of horse trading, they had a 19-4 in very good condition. 4", blued. Barely a turn line. Recessed cylinder and pinned barrel. $799 on the price tag. They are a pretty good size pawn shop chain out of Orlando. Several shops. I'm sure somebody could make a nice deal on that gun. And before anybody asks why I didn't buy it, I've probably got 14 or 15 .357's. I don't really need another one.
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
In case anyone's interested, all this talk of .357's made me go out haunting the local pawn and gun shops.
At La Familia in Hollywood, FL, a local pawn shop that bought the gun shop where I used to do a lot of horse trading, they had a 19-4 in very good condition. 4", blued. Barely a turn line. Recessed cylinder and pinned barrel. $799 on the price tag. They are a pretty good size pawn shop chain out of Orlando. Several shops. I'm sure somebody could make a nice deal on that gun. And before anybody asks why I didn't buy it, I've probably got 14 or 15 .357's. I don't really need another one.
LOL. Then why did you go shopping for one?
PS I'd be tempted to jump on the 19-4. Pinned and recessed. I've got a like-new 19-5 four incher, but I wish it was a -4. I've got a -4 snubby and a -4 six inch, both also in like-new condition.
In case anyone's interested, all this talk of .357's made me go out haunting the local pawn and gun shops.
At La Familia in Hollywood, FL, a local pawn shop that bought the gun shop where I used to do a lot of horse trading, they had a 19-4 in very good condition. 4", blued. Barely a turn line. Recessed cylinder and pinned barrel. $799 on the price tag. They are a pretty good size pawn shop chain out of Orlando. Several shops. I'm sure somebody could make a nice deal on that gun. And before anybody asks why I didn't buy it, I've probably got 14 or 15 .357's. I don't really need another one.
LOL. Then why did you go shopping for one?
PS I'd be tempted to jump on the 19-4. Pinned and recessed. I've got a like-new 19-5 four incher, but I wish it was a -4. I've got a -4 snubby and a -4 six inch, both also in like-new condition.
Hey Clyde, I didn't "go shopping for one". I go shopping at pawn shops for whatever I might find.
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
Not dead, but both are declining. The current interest in lever action cowboy guns is keeping 357 mag going. And there are plenty of 30-06 rifles already in circulation to keep factory ammo well stocked for a long time. But new rifles in 30-06 aren't selling anywhere near like they used to.
To a lesser extent that is true with 357 revolvers. I still see 357 revolvers on store shelves but can't remember the last NEW 30-06 rifle I saw on a gun rack. Pawn shops are full of good used ones though.
Most people don't really want the truth.
They just want constant reassurance that what they believe is the truth.
That's exactly what I said, dumb fugk. Not a single word said that I was hunting specifically for a .357.
You really do deserve all the heat you get for being a moron.
What a silly thing to argue about, but it's clear that all reasonable people would understand your words to mean you were interested in .357 Magnums while haunting those shops.
Askins says in his biography that he was at least partially responsible for the Border Patrol getting 4” Colt New Service revolvers in 38 Special. He talked of having a tool made up to bend the front sights and zeroed all of them before they were issued.
Probably a driving factor in Jordan’s quest for the K frame Combat Magnum. I think the New Service is at least as heavy if not heavier than the Heavy Duty S&W.
I don’t know if Askins was inclined to one brand in particular. He wrote of using Colt, S&W, and High Standard guns for both target and business purposes.
Dillonbuck, I've got at least 6 good ones within 5 miles of my house.
I live about 4 miles from the Hard Rock casino. Wherever you have a gamlng facility, there are always going to be pawn shops nearby.
There are pluses and minuses on locations.
While I like pawn shops, seeing them, along with gambling, payday lenders, bail/bondsman places, check cashing/ Western Union....tells me I don't want to hang around too long.
Developed areas have always seemed weird to me. 5 miles sees little change in folks or their average situation here. 2 blocks in a city can go from ghetto to the Mayor's Mansion.
Also don't have Costco or IKEA within 100 miles. Never been in wither. Heck, Golden Corral is about 80 miles,and in Commie MD.
Parents who say they have good kids..Usually don't!
That's exactly what I said, dumb fugk. Not a single word said that I was hunting specifically for a .357.
You really do deserve all the heat you get for being a moron.
What a silly thing to argue about, but it's clear that all reasonable people would understand your words to mean you were interested in .357 Magnums while haunting those shops.
Fugk you again. That's not what I said. I never go to pawn shops looking for one particular gun or caliber
Now why don't you go haunt some other thread and stop [bleep] this one up, moron.
Go find a Jew hater thread. That's more your style.
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
I have a GP-100 4” which is not nearly as classy or cool as an S&W or Colt but my other .357, a Winchester 1892 makes up for whatever cool points the Ruger loses.
I love that carbine. It belonged to my great grandfather!
In case anyone's interested, all this talk of .357's made me go out haunting the local pawn and gun shops.
At La Familia in Hollywood, FL, a local pawn shop that bought the gun shop where I used to do a lot of horse trading, they had a 19-4 in very good condition. 4", blued. Barely a turn line. Recessed cylinder and pinned barrel. $799 on the price tag. They are a pretty good size pawn shop chain out of Orlando. Several shops. I'm sure somebody could make a nice deal on that gun. And before anybody asks why I didn't buy it, I've probably got 14 or 15 .357's. I don't really need another one.
Forgot to mention. They also had a Winchester 94, carbine length, in .45 Colt. Like brandy new except for a couple small scratches on the buttstock. Metal was perfect. Tag on it said $999.
Slaves get what they need. Free men get what they want.
Picked up a stainless 6.5" New Model Blackhawk for 400 last weekend. Good shape made in 1979. Goes nicely with my three screw from 71 and two screw from 73 (both blued).
My 73 has a SN lower than the new model blackhawk serial number list.
Picked up a stainless 6.5" New Model Blackhawk for 400 last weekend. Good shape made in 1979. Goes nicely with my three screw from 71 and two screw from 73 (both blued).
My 73 has a SN lower than the new model blackhawk serial number list.
Another gun I wish I never sold (long list), my stainless, four and five-eighths inch, Blackhawk in .357 Magnum. Bought it in the 1980s. Should have kept it. Cool gun.
Having had a few .357's filter through my fingers, the one I regret the most was one I didn't actually buy. It was an early-1960's vintage Colt Trooper that my uncle bought new and proceeded to hammer the piss out of for the next 40 years. It was also the first centerfire revolver I ever fired as a young teenager. Fast forward to his estate sale and there it was on the table with his other well worn hunting guns. I passed on it at $300 as its finish was worn completely off, timing was almost nonexistent, end shake out the ass, lockup a sometimes thing, and the bore worn half smooth from untold gazillions of shots- all maximum loads of course, but just as likely from zealous use of cleaning rods. I took my cousin aside and asked him whyinhell he was selling his Old Man's Trooper and he just rolled his eyes and said as much lead spit out the sides as what went up the spout, and that a local pistolsmith quoted about twice as much more than the cost of a new S&W .357 to make it right, so away it goes. I pondered buying that thing, as much for nostalgia reasons as any, but in the end I walked away from it. The regret settled in on my drive home.....
"You can lead a man to logic, but you cannot make him think." Joe Harz "Always certain, often right." Keith McCafferty
Having had a few .357's filter through my fingers, the one I regret the most was one I didn't actually buy. It was an early-1960's vintage Colt Trooper that my uncle bought new and proceeded to hammer the piss out of for the next 40 years. It was also the first centerfire revolver I ever fired as a young teenager. Fast forward to his estate sale and there it was on the table with his other well worn hunting guns. I passed on it at $300 as its finish was worn completely off, timing was almost nonexistent, end shake out the ass, lockup a sometimes thing, and the bore worn half smooth from untold gazillions of shots- all maximum loads of course, but just as likely from zealous use of cleaning rods. I took my cousin aside and asked him whyinhell he was selling his Old Man's Trooper and he just rolled his eyes and said as much lead spit out the sides as what went up the spout, and that a local pistolsmith quoted about twice as much more than the cost of a new S&W .357 to make it right, so away it goes. I pondered buying that thing, as much for nostalgia reasons as any, but in the end I walked away from it. The regret settled in on my drive home.....
Amusing anecdote re: that gun and my uncle. 50 years ago I witnessed him blast a red-tailed hawk out of a tall tree top with it, after pulling to the side of the road and jumping out while muttering about "godda**ed hawks". He wasn't one to make fine distinctions about game conservation and protected species.....
"You can lead a man to logic, but you cannot make him think." Joe Harz "Always certain, often right." Keith McCafferty
Having had a few .357's filter through my fingers, the one I regret the most was one I didn't actually buy. It was an early-1960's vintage Colt Trooper that my uncle bought new and proceeded to hammer the piss out of for the next 40 years. It was also the first centerfire revolver I ever fired as a young teenager. Fast forward to his estate sale and there it was on the table with his other well worn hunting guns. I passed on it at $300 as its finish was worn completely off, timing was almost nonexistent, end shake out the ass, lockup a sometimes thing, and the bore worn half smooth from untold gazillions of shots- all maximum loads of course, but just as likely from zealous use of cleaning rods. I took my cousin aside and asked him whyinhell he was selling his Old Man's Trooper and he just rolled his eyes and said as much lead spit out the sides as what went up the spout, and that a local pistolsmith quoted about twice as much more than the cost of a new S&W .357 to make it right, so away it goes. I pondered buying that thing, as much for nostalgia reasons as any, but in the end I walked away from it. The regret settled in on my drive home.....
Dead? LOL No, still one of the best defensive rounds anywhere
Apart from blast and flash, it's likely the best defensive round. Shooting it in the dark can blind the shooter, and shooting it inside a small enclosed space can deafen the shooter. The only drawbacks.
Dead? LOL No, still one of the best defensive rounds anywhere
Especially in the “high capacity” N Frame 8 shot
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
Dead? LOL No, still one of the best defensive rounds anywhere
Especially in the “high capacity” N Frame 8 shot
Those are pretty cool, particularly the scandium/titanium versions. I wish, however, they didn't only offer it in a snubby. A three or four inch barrel version would be great. Also, I wish they offered it without the Hillary Hole.
Dead? LOL No, still one of the best defensive rounds anywhere
Especially in the “high capacity” N Frame 8 shot
Those are pretty cool, particularly the scandium/titanium versions. I wish, however, they didn't only offer it in a snubby. A three or four inch barrel version would be great. Also, I wish they offered it without the Hillary Hole.
Dead? LOL No, still one of the best defensive rounds anywhere
Especially in the “high capacity” N Frame 8 shot
Those are pretty cool, particularly the scandium/titanium versions. I wish, however, they didn't only offer it in a snubby. A three or four inch barrel version would be great. Also, I wish they offered it without the Hillary Hole.
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
I have shot out 44 mag mountain gun (thousands of rounds and two classes at ThunderRanch) with no issues.
The current 627 works flawlessly.
BMT
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
I carry a Colt Magnum Carry, quite often lately, with 357 magnum ammo loaded in it. I also use a 1990's era Colt King Cobra as a home/hotel room defense gun on occasion, so to me the 357 magnum is not dead. I also have high capacity 9mm pistols that I also use.
Having shot the hideous Rhino revolver, I kind of want one. The recoil impulse is so different.
They are hard to find in stores. I think because they use them all in the movies (si-fi).
Very bold, I always assumed you were more of classic revolver aficionado.🤭 This is nitch gun bought mostly by younger shooters. They should offer model in 10mm instead of .40S&W. Young bucks with big kahones love 10mm auto cartridge.
I carry a Colt Magnum Carry, quite often lately, with 357 magnum ammo loaded in it. I also use a 1990's era Colt King Cobra as a home/hotel room defense gun on occasion, so to me the 357 magnum is not dead. I also have high capacity 9mm pistols that I also use.
Ethan Edwards had a Magnum Carry, and liked it a lot. I think it was his wife's house gun.
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
It is actually really sharp looking gun. Something similar was peddled to French police as Manuhrin Model 88, if memory serves. They were stainless with St Etienne proof marks.
i have been reading plenty about big bore pistols which i own a few including a S.W. 460 6 1/2 inch barrel ,44 mags and 357 Mags. and to be honest including what Mr. Phil Shoemaker the famous big bear guide says and uses the 357 Mag. seems to be the easier carry and works just fine on all bears too as long as you use hard core lead bullets . so i purchased a new Ruger s.s. 357 SP 100 5 shot revolver 4 inch barrel and this revolver is in a x-draw holster . i have been in the Arizona Mnts. this winter " 2024" carrying this pistol in this x-draw holster i don`t even notice this new type holster with this lighter weight Ruger 100 / 5 shot , its has been a pleasure to carry over my 44 mag. revolver too. > No the 357 is not DEAD !
I shoot quite a bit, 4K or so of 357 every year. I rarely max it out but cast 158-180 at 1100-1200 are great and have really good penetration. As far as defensive trail guns go, I often carry a 3” 686 plus on a chesty.
Hear that Winchester 1892 .357 conversions work pretty good too.
Winchester currently catalogs a couple variants. I'm a fan of the '92, mostly the old ones, but I would not complain if a new one in .357, .44 magnum, or .45 colt appeared in the safe.
Anyone who thinks there's two sides to everything hasn't met a M�bius strip.
A 357 Magnum is probably as good as it gets for self defense against people. It’s not the cartridge it’s the guns that are chambered for it. That’s probably already been said but I haven’t read through the comments.
A revolver isn’t the most effective option for defense against people these days. As a carry gun for defense against large animals where a revolver still makes a lot of sense as a trail gun a revolver chambered in 44 or 45 caliber makes more sense than a revolver chambered in 357 Magnum. A 44 or 45 caliber revolver can be loaded moderately if needed and makes a nice shooting gun and will still be more effective than a loud and obnoxious full throttle 357 Magnum cartridge.
A 357 Magnum is probably as good as it gets for self defense against people.
A revolver isn’t the most effective option for defense against people these days.
Agree and disagree.
The .357 is a solid self defense round.
I would not send LEOs or Military out with revolvers.
But a civilian who can shoot a .357 will be well served
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
Such pistol designs will not shoot rimmed cartridges so the mighty 357 mag is solely a revolver cartridge where it excels.
Rick
GR
I have one of these and so does my son. Its a rifle I will never part with. Between my son, my nephews, and I we have killed a truck load of deer and some coyotes with a .357 rifle. Hard to beat. Pair it with a Ruger Speed Six or a S&W 65 and nothing could be better.
A 357 Magnum is probably as good as it gets for self defense against people. It’s not the cartridge it’s the guns that are chamber for it. That’s probably already been said but I haven’t read through the comments.
A revolver isn’t the most effective option for defense against people these days. As a carry gun for defense against large animals where a revolver still makes a lot of sense as a trail gun a revolver chambered in 44 or 45 caliber makes more sense than a revolver chambered in 357 Magnum. A 44 or 45 caliber revolver can be loaded moderately if needed and makes a nice shooting gun and still be more effective than a loud and obnoxious full throttle 357 Magnum cartridge.
Not really. The cartridge itself is what makes it effective, not so much the gun. For example, there are hundreds of thousands of guns out there that shoot both the .357 Mag and the .38 Special, and while the .38 Special is good it doesn't come close to the .357 in effectiveness.....from the same exact gun. I enjoy both the .44 and .45, but the .357 can be loaded "moderately" every bit the same as both of those cartridges. And it's very possible to have less recoil with the .357 when loaded to the same power levels as the others, too, which translates into ease of shooting for your average person.
The fact that you can also shoot .38 Special from a .357 Magnum revolver makes it incredibly useful. The average shooter isn't a reloader.
Of course, with a simple barrel swap I can shoot .357 Sig and .40 S&W from my P226. That gives me a much cheaper option that is similar in recoil for target practice.
A 357 Magnum is probably as good as it gets for self defense against people. It’s not the cartridge it’s the guns that are chamber for it. That’s probably already been said but I haven’t read through the comments.
A revolver isn’t the most effective option for defense against people these days. As a carry gun for defense against large animals where a revolver still makes a lot of sense as a trail gun a revolver chambered in 44 or 45 caliber makes more sense than a revolver chambered in 357 Magnum. A 44 or 45 caliber revolver can be loaded moderately if needed and makes a nice shooting gun and still be more effective than a loud and obnoxious full throttle 357 Magnum cartridge.
Not really. The cartridge itself is what makes it effective, not so much the gun. For example, there are hundreds of thousands of guns out there that shoot both the .357 Mag and the .38 Special, and while the .38 Special is good it doesn't come close to the .357 in effectiveness.....from the same exact gun. I enjoy both the .44 and .45, but the .357 can be loaded "moderately" every bit the same as both of those cartridges. And it's very possible to have less recoil with the .357 when loaded to the same power levels as the others, too, which translates into ease of shooting for your average person.
You won't find the cartridge capacity (headstamp) making up nearly as much ground as the package.
A 38/44 is perfectly fine handling a 357 style load in 38 case.
Matter of fact, just by seating a bullet to the "magnum" case length in the parent case, as long as the GUN is capable of the length, the title on the cartridge does not matter.
A 357 Magnum is probably as good as it gets for self defense against people. It’s not the cartridge it’s the guns that are chamber for it. That’s probably already been said but I haven’t read through the comments.
A revolver isn’t the most effective option for defense against people these days. As a carry gun for defense against large animals where a revolver still makes a lot of sense as a trail gun a revolver chambered in 44 or 45 caliber makes more sense than a revolver chambered in 357 Magnum. A 44 or 45 caliber revolver can be loaded moderately if needed and makes a nice shooting gun and still be more effective than a loud and obnoxious full throttle 357 Magnum cartridge.
Not really. The cartridge itself is what makes it effective, not so much the gun. For example, there are hundreds of thousands of guns out there that shoot both the .357 Mag and the .38 Special, and while the .38 Special is good it doesn't come close to the .357 in effectiveness.....from the same exact gun. I enjoy both the .44 and .45, but the .357 can be loaded "moderately" every bit the same as both of those cartridges. And it's very possible to have less recoil with the .357 when loaded to the same power levels as the others, too, which translates into ease of shooting for your average person.
I agree that it’s a very effective cartridge. Probably thee most effective common handgun cartridge for defense against people. The guns (revolvers) that are chambered for them are the drawback if you take away the fun and nostalgia of a quality revolver and strictly want a carry gun.
Sure you can download a 357 Magnum or carry 38 Special ammo but at that point it’s basically a typically heavier all metal low capacity and slower to reload 9mm. There isn’t anything wrong with that but from a strictly utilitarian standpoint it doesn’t make a lot of sense and is more of a niche gun. IMO that’s the biggest reason for the decline in 357 Magnum’s.
The 357 Magnum’s sweet spot is as a man stopper but the guns that chamber it are no longer the typical self defense handguns. I love classics and nostalgia but for a workhorse carry gun a polymer striker fired pistol has a lot going for it.
"The Church can and should help modern society by tirelessly insisting that the work of women in the home be recognized and respected by all in its irreplaceable value." Apostolic Exhortation On The Family, Pope John Paul II
A 357 Magnum is probably as good as it gets for self defense against people. It’s not the cartridge it’s the guns that are chamber for it. That’s probably already been said but I haven’t read through the comments.
A revolver isn’t the most effective option for defense against people these days. As a carry gun for defense against large animals where a revolver still makes a lot of sense as a trail gun a revolver chambered in 44 or 45 caliber makes more sense than a revolver chambered in 357 Magnum. A 44 or 45 caliber revolver can be loaded moderately if needed and makes a nice shooting gun and still be more effective than a loud and obnoxious full throttle 357 Magnum cartridge.
Not really. The cartridge itself is what makes it effective, not so much the gun. For example, there are hundreds of thousands of guns out there that shoot both the .357 Mag and the .38 Special, and while the .38 Special is good it doesn't come close to the .357 in effectiveness.....from the same exact gun. I enjoy both the .44 and .45, but the .357 can be loaded "moderately" every bit the same as both of those cartridges. And it's very possible to have less recoil with the .357 when loaded to the same power levels as the others, too, which translates into ease of shooting for your average person.
I agree that it’s a very effective cartridge. Probably thee most effective common handgun cartridge for defense against people. The guns (revolvers) that are chambered for them are the drawback if you take away the fun and nostalgia of a quality revolver and strictly want a carry gun.
Sure you can download a 357 Magnum or carry 38 Special ammo but at that point it’s basically a typically heavier all metal low capacity and slower to reload 9mm. There isn’t anything wrong with that but from a strictly utilitarian standpoint it doesn’t make a lot of sense and is more of a niche gun. IMO that’s the biggest reason for the decline in 357 Magnum’s.
The 357 Magnum’s sweet spot is as a man stopper but the guns that chamber it are no longer the typical self defense handguns. I love classics and nostalgia but for a workhorse carry gun a polymer striker fired pistol has a lot going for it.
A lot of guys say the 9mm (9x19), is more powerful. Not even +P+ ammo. What the hell are they smoking? I don't see it going away any time soon. Sure it's not carried by cops anymore but, a lot of shooters still use it.
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