I hunted with heavy loads and heavy bullet in 357 for decades but a 2.5" barrel No , Your giving up to much energy and velocity . Not for hunting or protection in the woods .

Take the 5" 45auto revolver loaded with 45 super ammo from underwood ammo . There 230gr bonded speer gold dot at 1100fps + . NOT hard cast . Simply not needed

https://www.underwoodammo.com/45-sup...-hollow-point/

That bullet will deal with a hogs sheild and a black bear just ain't that hard to kill .