This thread aroused my curiosity, since I have several .357s and have, thus far, fired 125gr. magnum loads exclusively. I took out the one(a 686-6) which has the most rounds through it(maybe 1500 thus far). I put it under the sunlight and looked at the top strap through a magnifying glass. There is a very slight cut above the forcing cone which doesn't reach the outer edges of the top strap. I'm not concerned about it, but maybe that is just me.

Andy