For competition purposes, USPSA specifically, the .357 does not meet the minimum caliber diameter for major power factor. Limited, limited 10, Single Stack and Revolver divisions require a minimum caliber of .40 to score major. Any caliber under .40 cal. in these divisions scores minor which translates into lost points for any hits on targets other than an "A" hit. Production division minimum caliber is 9mm. Minimum power factor for production division is 125. The .357 sig probably hits the 165+ power factor so now shot recovery is the issue when a power factor of 125 is the minimum requirement. Competitors reload 9mm to about 130 PF, reducing recoil, allowing faster shot recovery, not to mention the expense of factory .357 sig ammo is considerably more. When you go thru 10K - 15K rounds a yr. & more cost is a huge driver. The .357 sig is also at a disadvantage in open division due to magazine capacity. The 9mm & .38 super open division shooters can load up to 30 rounds in a 170 mm magazine. The .357 would max a 170 mm magazine out at about 25 or 26. On a 28+ round course of fire the 9mm/.38 super guys don't have to perform a magazine change, .357 sig shooters do, so the .357 sig guys are already at a competitive disadvantage. For competitive purposes the .357 sig is a dinosaur. For carry/personal protection/law enforcement, it is a very effective cartridge.