357 trajectory question

[jws1006]

Don't use JHP. They lack penetration at hunting ranges. Believe me as I found out the hard way after finding several neck shots with JHP's at under 15 yards stopped at the spine without breaking bone. Ideally you will want to use 158gr or heavier hard cast lead SWC's. My own 158 gr cast lead SWC with gas checks zip through 9" of phone books at 25 yards like it is butter. Brinnel hardness was around 12-13. Normally I like lots of expansion in my rifle loads but revolver rounds don't have the higher energy and thus rely more on tissue/organ damage and hemorrhaging than shocking power. More like an arrow. Because of this shot placement is more critical than with a rifle. Practice mostly at 25 yards and some at fifty because we are not always accurate on our range estimates while afield. I like OKF's paper plate drill. Used to do the same thing when practicing for archery hunting with my recurve bow.
John

Actually my opinion is cast lead will suprise you at lower velocities.Actually just a few years ago,well maybe closer to 10,I read an article,cant remember who wrote it but remember I recognised him as being pretty durn knowledgeable.This writer was still recomending plain lead round nose in .38 special for defense cuz lead worked better at .38 velocities.

 

[rodell]

Don't use JHP. They lack penetration at hunting ranges.
John

I have hunted whitetails carrying only my Model 66.

Run of the mill (Remington?) JHP's at any longer range are definitely marginal for good sized whitetails. I have not tried any of the newer wonder JHP's, they may very well be better. I would go with a soft point or, better yet, a Keith-style hard cast. 158 grain minimum.

I do suggest you practice, though. I always maintain that people do poorly at longer ranges because they fail to practice at those ranges. Get a couple of boxes of Buffalo Bore and go out to the range/woods. It's the right thing to do.

I do agree with a previous poster that a wounded deer experience can really turn off the kids.

 

[TLM]

I'm in the minority here, i have used the 357 mag on deer for years (20+ ) and have also been shooting it for years. I HAVE dropped deer from 20yds to 135yds(with a rest) with my scoped S&W. My gun likes factory federal 158's jsp, and the gun shoots great. I have never recovered a bullet (as they always went through, even some through shoulders). I have the upmost respect for the round after seeing what it can do on deer and hogs.