Do You Really need a .357 Magnum for Self Defense?

[Talyn]

The lawman revolver is most definitely a .357 Magnum. The .357 Magnum is a caliber that’s popular with revolver carriers, and at first glance, it’s easy to see why.

Do You Really need a .357 Magnum for Self Defense?

 

[ECS686]

Need???? Probably not but I love a 357 Mag L frame with a 4” barrel and 125 SJHP.

Seriously though out of a 2” or less no not worth the bite. 4” service size wheelgun heck yes

 

[Sld1959]

Need? Not really for his short barreled self defence scenario, which is his narrow argument. But have the option of, why not. Not every choice needs it, I love the Centennial and Bodyguard snub revolvers, the old hump back bodyguard not the new so called Bodyguards. They are excellant choices in .38 special.

But nothing wrong with options either. Choosing say the model 60 in either its short, 2.13, or long, 3 in, variations gives you options. I love the .38 special FBI load, great loading. But, in very cold Michigan winters, I like the peace of mind the added punch of a .357 magnum gives also. Chances are the .38 will do fine, but.... of course chances are i won't need either and i still carry, i like my options. I also prefer. 357 magnums in my revolver when I am wandering the woods, especially the Northern woods.

Nothing wrong with options.

 

[Mr.W.]

Need? Doubtful for the ordinary (if there is such) self defense scenario, as others posted. Unless paired with a suitable weapon, it's easily, simply too much for many to reasonably wield. But, magnums surely boost the piece of mind factor, don't they?!

 

[Inusuit]

No. There are better options in my opinion.

 

[HayesGreener]

Too much recoil and muzzle flash

 

[Blackmesa96]

.357 is definitely a handful in my snubby, but while I keep it loaded with .38, it's nice to know the gun is capable of shooting the good stuff if the need arises.
Guess I'm a Neanderthal, but I would rather have too much gun should the need arise.

 

[HayesGreener]

.357 is definitely a handful in my snubby, but while I keep it loaded with .38, it's nice to know the gun is capable of shooting the good stuff if the need arises.
Guess I'm a Neanderthal, but I would rather have too much gun should the need arise.

I see your point. Why just kill them when you can TAKE THEIR SOUL?

 

[Sld1959]

Too much recoil and muzzle flash

In the airweights I would agree. But in a stainless steel revolver with a modern hand filling grip even my wife has shot full .357 magnums out of short barreled jframe size revolvers with no real effect.

I do not say the are always needed, but like I said earlier, I prefer having the option where circumstances warrant.

 

[Blackmesa96]

I see your point. Why just kill them when you can TAKE THEIR SOUL?

Exactly.

 

[Recusant]

The obvious choice if you think the .38 is too weak and the.357 mag is too much is the .38 + P. The recoil is certainly manageable and shouldn't accelerate wear on a pistol that is rated for .357 mag. More enjoyable to shoot at the range as well.

 

[HayesGreener]

The obvious choice if you think the .38 is too weak and the.357 mag is too much is the .38 + P. The recoil is certainly manageable and shouldn't accelerate wear on a pistol that is rated for .357 mag. More enjoyable to shoot at the range as well.

.38 Spl 158 gr plus p half jacketed hp has perforated many an evildoer to good effect

 

[Recusant]

.38 Spl 158 gr plus p half jacketed hp has perforated many an evildoer to good effect

 

[Sld1959]

View attachment 41890

My model 60 is most often loaded with the old FBI load 158gr +p lead semi wadcutter Hp. Normally both speed loaders are the same load to match my wife's 637.

But on some occasions I switch to 357 magnums.

 

[HansGruber]

I’ve found that Remington’s .357mag Golden Saber to be a very pleasant compromise in my 640 Pro.

No, it’s not a 1500fps+ screamer; for a 125gr mag, it’s a fairly sedate 1150--1200fps when I chronoed it quite some time ago. The recoil is very manageable, it’s very accurate (I’ve found Golden Savers to be very accurate no matter what the loading…), and that puts it a solid 25%+ faster than most 125gr +P commercial loads.

Works for me.

 

[mikep]

I can’t shoot my way out of a wet paper bag with a .357, so no, not for me.

 

[Bassbob]

Yes. A couple of them. And some .45s, 9MMs and several shotguns. Plus a couple ARs. And a trebuchet.

 

[mikep]

Yes. A couple of them. And some .45s, 9MMs and several shotguns. Plus a couple ARs. And a trebuchet.

Does the trebuchet use clips or mags?

 

[Bassbob]

Does the trebuchet use clips or mags?

Bowling balls. And I have the perfect location. And a 700 yard shot to the highway.

 

[mikep]

I see your point. Why just kill them when you can TAKE THEIR SOUL?

I thought that’s what “God’s caliber” was for.

Bowling balls. And I have the perfect location. And a 700 yard shot to the highway.

I worked with an engineer who took part in “punkin’ chunkin’” contests in the fall. He was in the airgun group and would launch head-sized pumpkins 500 yards. He didn’t do the trebuchet group but said they were real fun to watch.