Heavy .357 Ammo for K-frame

[CCantu357]

Need some advice on some heavy hunting style factory loads that I can carry in my Model 19 for trail use. At the most I need defense against wild hogs, coyotes, small mountain lions and prehaps even small black bears in an emegency. I have been thinking about 180 grain SJHP Remington or Winchester Partition Gold. Remingtion CoreLokt is another one I am considering. I know the 125 grains are hell on the 19, but is there a good heavy load that will be easy on the gun as well?

 

[StatesRightist]

I like the 180gr Federal Vital Shoks for the trail, but I would fire it in very limited numbers.

 

[badge]

Any 158grain soft point would work quite well.

 

[brucev]

For the utmost in power within SAAMI standards look very hard at Buffalo Bore. Their loads with standard weight bullets are quite remarkable.

 

[chief38]

When I am in the woods I carry my 3" M65 loaded with Buffalo Bore 180 grain hard cast LSWCHP .357's. Nothing better from a 3" bbl. .357 IMHO!

I suppose a larger caliber gun would be more effective against a huge Bear, but the 3" .357 is so easy to carry, I ALWAYS have it with me when in the woods as opposed to a larger more powerful gun sitting back at the cabin.

 

[Pointblank2U]

Federal Fusion. For the record heavy bullet weight is not the culprit in prematurely wearing out K-Frame Magnums. It was the hot 125 grain loads like the Remington (non Golden Saber) and Federal.

 

[61woody]

Due to the muscle density plus the bone structure of a bear I think I would stay away from a HP type bullets. A custom or premium SWC or softpoint will get you better penetration.

 

[Steve C]

No need for extra heavy loads for the .357 mag. No need to stress you model 19. Any of the 140 to 180gr JSP/JHP factory .357 mag by Winchester, Remington, CCI/Speer or Federal is all that is necessary.

Extra heavy loads are more for hunting with heavier framed pistols where you shoot with careful aim at potentially long range after stalking or ambushing your game. A self defense situation with a bear or cougar where if you need to fend off an attack its because they are hunting you and your shots are likey to be off the muzzle at very close range or even muzzle contact.

Realistically you are far more likely to need your handgun for protection against criminal human predators than animals.

 

[CCantu357]

Thanks for the advice. Looks like I will go with either 158 grain SWC or JSP. Although I do like Buffalo Bore's factory made 38/44 Load with the Keith bullet. I usaully use 110 JHP Border Patrol or Silvertips for defense, though in the field I would feel comfortable with a little more penetration.