.357 Magnum vs .38 +P - personal defense and volume question

[johnnywitt]

.357 isn't worth it until you get to a 4" bbl IMO. In a 2" bbl I would stick with +P if you need more horsepower. In a light snubby I would stick to regular .38 because of flash & recoil on a double tap. Bigger is not always better. .357 Mag works great in an N Frame revolver with a 4" or longer barrel. This is where you get some "bang" for your buck.

 

[Old cop]

Since this post started on my birthday I'll offer my two cents, albeit a bit late. My home defense gun is a 2.5" Model 19 loaded with Buffalo Bore .38 +P 158 gr. for all the same reasons as those before me stated. Best and hope you never need to use it . . .