They are NOT Plus P Plus, which S&W reps told me caused as much trouble in K-frame .357's as did those very hot 125 grain smokers. Those were basically .357 loads in .38 cases, so cops could tell the media and political troublemakers that they issued .38 ammo. This was mainly in liberal cities where that was a factor. Plus P Plus was not offered to the public and departments had to sign waivers acknowedging that the ammo would cause extra wear on guns.


The Speer SB loads are mild, and in .357 cases, if for a .357. They also make SB ammo in .38 Special.


Both are considered to be about as good as it gets for their purpose. BTW, I called Speer and they said these are okay for up to four-inch barrels. After that, bullets may expand excessvely at the higher velocity, limiting penetration.


SB is what I keep in my three-inch guns, if not using the lead HP Plus P 158 grain load.


They can be hard to find. You're very lucky to locate three boxes.


One of the most effective loads in a three-inch .357 is Winchester's 145 grain Silvertip, which hits about 1200 FPS in a three-incher. A detective who checked local shootings with it said it proved VERY effective on felons. It was issued to both Dallas PD and FBI personnel wanting Magnum ammo. It was used mainly in K-frame guns, of course, with three and four-inch barrels. Recoil would be a bit smart in a J-frame or Ruger SP.


Bear in mind that NO .357 ammo is really "range ammo" for routine practice and plinking. It was never intended for that purpose. It is to kill things and people. Excessive use will shorten gun llife and accelerate the need for repairs. Particularly now that S&W no longer makes the fine revolvers they once did, you don't want to wear one sooner than need be.


Practice enough with .357's to remain proficient, but otherwise, shoot it at coyotes, deer, javelina, and such. Or at people trying to kill you. Shoot normal pressure .38 ammo for routine range loads.