I have tested, chronographed and shot a few of the Buffalo Bore 180 grain .357 Magnum hard cast LSWC loads from my 3" M65 as that is what I tote along with me in the woods. Lots of bears up where I hike - LOTS! While the loads are really punishing in the small 3" K Frame and actually hurts my shooting hand, at least I know that both the gun and I can handle it if push comes to shove!

While the .357 mag is certainly not the absolute best for Bears, the M 65 3" with the BB 180 grain Mag's is at least adequate and the package is such that I always have it with me. Yes, a .44 Magnum or larger might be better but I'd hate hauling that big heavy gun all day long through the woods.

I have shot the BB's sparingly through the M65 and don't shoot them on any regular basis. The bottom line is that the gun is no worse for the wear but again, I've only shot a dozen or so for familiarity and accuracy testing. Now I just carry them and practice with less violent loads.

Hope that helps you out.