Like most people, when given the chance between a .38 Spl. or a .357 Revolver, I'd always choose the .357 mag. But as I've gotten older, and hopefully wiser, I just don't shoot .357 mag. Or really have a use for one.
Most of my handguns revolve around protection against 2 legged threats. And shorter barrel lengths for carry (2"-4"). .357 Mag was the manstopper back in the day, but .38 was no slouch either with the right ammo. When I carry a revolver, a .38 Spl loaded with WC, HP's, or SWCHP's will get the job done without excessive recoil and blast. Which means for me, a quicker follow-up shot. Modern .38 spl. also lets you go from light target up to hot +P. Even if I were to carry a .357 mag loaded with magnums, it would probably be one of the lighter 1100-1200 fps loads. Honestly, that's probably all you need for 2-legged Self-defense.
Recently. I've gotten back into wheel guns. And where I'd normally get all excited about a .357 mag, I've actually been looking at .38 Specials. Sure, I can shoot .38 in a .357 mag gun, but if I'm probably never going to, why not just buy one of the excellent .38 K frames that are available. And the price tag is usually $100-$200 less. As an example, everyone loves the model 19. But good luck finding one. And it will run you $800+. While I saw no less than 3 model 15's sitting at my local shop for $650. Two were practically new (-3 & -4) and had been there at least a month.
There's nothing wrong with having some magnum guns as needed. And they make a great trail gun in most non-griz States. Or for hunting. But Buffalo Bore's 38/44 HC load in .38+P may fill the same role (158 gr @ 1150 fps out of a 4" or 1250 fps out of a 6").
For me, my current needs and focus will probably be on .38 Spl.
Part of my .38 collection
I do have a few .357 mags.
I found this like new 67-6 for $499 today at a local shop. It was cheaper than comparable .357's. Yeah it has the lock, but I'll get over it.
Most of my handguns revolve around protection against 2 legged threats. And shorter barrel lengths for carry (2"-4"). .357 Mag was the manstopper back in the day, but .38 was no slouch either with the right ammo. When I carry a revolver, a .38 Spl loaded with WC, HP's, or SWCHP's will get the job done without excessive recoil and blast. Which means for me, a quicker follow-up shot. Modern .38 spl. also lets you go from light target up to hot +P. Even if I were to carry a .357 mag loaded with magnums, it would probably be one of the lighter 1100-1200 fps loads. Honestly, that's probably all you need for 2-legged Self-defense.
Recently. I've gotten back into wheel guns. And where I'd normally get all excited about a .357 mag, I've actually been looking at .38 Specials. Sure, I can shoot .38 in a .357 mag gun, but if I'm probably never going to, why not just buy one of the excellent .38 K frames that are available. And the price tag is usually $100-$200 less. As an example, everyone loves the model 19. But good luck finding one. And it will run you $800+. While I saw no less than 3 model 15's sitting at my local shop for $650. Two were practically new (-3 & -4) and had been there at least a month.
There's nothing wrong with having some magnum guns as needed. And they make a great trail gun in most non-griz States. Or for hunting. But Buffalo Bore's 38/44 HC load in .38+P may fill the same role (158 gr @ 1150 fps out of a 4" or 1250 fps out of a 6").
For me, my current needs and focus will probably be on .38 Spl.
Part of my .38 collection
I do have a few .357 mags.
I found this like new 67-6 for $499 today at a local shop. It was cheaper than comparable .357's. Yeah it has the lock, but I'll get over it.
Last edited:
