Bullet Caliber Descriptions
.357 Magnum
Based upon Smith & Wessons earlier .38 Special cartridge. The .357 Magnum cartridge was introduced in 1934, and its use has since become widespread. The .357 Magnum cartridge is notable for its highly effective terminal ballistics when used for hunting or defense. In terms of accuracy, the .357 Magnum has at least the same potential for precision shooting as the benchmark .38 Special wadcutter round. A good .357 Magnum firearm will shoot .38 Special ammunition with good results. It is this accuracy and power, and the versatility of also being capable of using less-expensive, milder .38 Special ammunition, that makes a .357 Magnum an excellent gun for many different disciplines, from 20 yard precision shooting to long-range falling-plate events. It is an excellent round for those considering handloading ammunition, as it is economical and consistently performs well.
Suggested Use
- Deer
- Bear
- Sheep / Goat
- Target
Performance
This cartridge is regarded by many as an excellent hunting, metallic silhouette and self-defense round. With proper loadings it can also be effective against large or dangerous game, such as bear and ungulates. The .357 Magnum has less energy than the larger magnum loadings but is smaller in diameter with high velocity allowing for excellent penetration properties. It is a fine small- and medium-game round and is sufficient to hunt deer at reasonable ranges if suitable loadings are used by a competent marksman. The 357 Magnum's effectiveness on game is similar to that of the .45 Colt, but with a much flatter trajectory due to its higher velocity. It is a very versatile cartridge, and can be used with success for self-defence, plinking, hunting, or target shooting.
It has also become popular as a dual-use cartridge in short, light rifles like the American Old West lever-actions. In a rifle, the bullet will exit the barrel at about 1,800 feet per second, making it far more versatile than the .30 Carbine or the .32-20 Winchester. In the 1930s, it was found to be very effective against steel car doors and ballistic vests, and metal-penetrating rounds were once popular in the United States among highway patrol and other police organizations.
|