Rem308 Posted January 17, 2008 Report Share Posted January 17, 2008 Okay folks, I have read a good bit of online literature on the subject of " .357 Magnum for deer"; I read a lot of people that say the bullet placement has to be perfect and within 50 yards...most recommend the .44 Magnum for a deer handgun. I have shot several .357's, .44 magnums, even a friends .460 S&W (Which was too much for me, partially I'm sure to the hot loads that he had reloaded.) I have shot both calibers in heavier revolvers with barrel lengths of 6"+ (The .44 mag was a 8" barrel). The .357 was a Taurus Tracker and felt great, plus I liked the ability to shoot .38's in it and save a little dough while I shoot at the range for fun & practice. I have seen a few of the Ruger Super Redhawk in .44 mag that seem awesome, I believe they're already drilled for a scope base. What is your all's opinion on the better caliber for whitetail? Thanks folks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rem308 Posted January 18, 2008 Author Report Share Posted January 18, 2008 I have just read a lot of media stating that the .357 Magnum isn't a very good choice for deer hunting, so I wanted to get your opinions. Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
johnf Posted January 18, 2008 Report Share Posted January 18, 2008 I think knowing your, and your guns limits are the most important things. My dad talks about deer hunting with a 22short pistol back in the early 50's in California. He says he never lost one. A gun is only as affective as the person using it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Strut10 Posted January 18, 2008 Report Share Posted January 18, 2008 There's no question that, between the two, the .44 Mag makes the best deer gun. Sure, a .357 will take deer-sized game. But the .44 Mag has larger bullet diameter and about 40% more energy on its side. You also have the option of firing .44 Specials from your .44 Mag if recoil is an issue for you during regular range sessions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
popgun Posted January 18, 2008 Report Share Posted January 18, 2008 I'd put it this way. The .357 is fine if that is all you have, but the .44 mag is great. after experiencing what my .44 mags will do, I would never look back to the .357. ....popgun Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TexasDeerHunter Posted January 19, 2008 Report Share Posted January 19, 2008 Personally I have never killed a deer with a 44mag, but would consider it a great choice. However, I am a huge 357 fan and would have no issue recommending one. I will say that bullet selection and shot placement would be crucial. With proper loads I would say the 357 is just as effective as the 44. I don't know if it's an option, but I would highly reccomend the Freedom Arms .454 Casull. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LifeNRA Posted January 19, 2008 Report Share Posted January 19, 2008 A gun is only as affective as the person using it. There's no question that, between the two, the .44 Mag makes the best deer gun. Sure, a .357 will take deer-sized game. But the .44 Mag has larger bullet diameter and about 40% more energy on its side. You also have the option of firing .44 Specials from your .44 Mag if recoil is an issue for you during regular range sessions. I would go with the 44! I carry a .357 during the rifle deer season. Only for a finishing shot once I get to my harvest, if needed. I could use it for real close shots, and it will do the job! But I would want something with more punch! Strictly hunting with a handgun, definitely the 44. Like Don said, you can always plink around with the 44 specials. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest onesonek Posted January 19, 2008 Report Share Posted January 19, 2008 Either would work, within the limitations as already noted. Personally, I would opt for the bigger heavier bullet. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rem308 Posted January 21, 2008 Author Report Share Posted January 21, 2008 Well I appreciate all the information...I'm still dreaming right now of what I like. Over the weekend I did happen by a gun shop and really liked the feel (and price wasn't too bad either) of one of their Taurus Tracker's. I'm still debating and trying to figure out what I want/need! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
str8shooter48 Posted January 22, 2008 Report Share Posted January 22, 2008 T/C Encore in 7mm-08 or 308 win. In a revolver I'd lean more toward the 44mag. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest onesonek Posted January 23, 2008 Report Share Posted January 23, 2008 T/C Encore in 7mm-08 or 308 win. In a revolver I'd lean more toward the 44mag. TC's are great! .250 AIRLN ( rimmed long neck) for my Antelope rig newest addition, 6.5-257Rob AIR for deer rig with a .300JNKR (.300-376 radiused shoulder) on the way for Elk Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
str8shooter48 Posted January 23, 2008 Report Share Posted January 23, 2008 I'd probably say my favorite deer gun over the years has been my T/C Contender Super 14 pistol in .35 rem. almost forgot I owned a shotgun. Now that NY has legalized rifle in the southern zone, my 308 Encore is the go to gun, followed by the 209x50. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Don76 Posted February 8, 2008 Report Share Posted February 8, 2008 My father has taken numerous deer with his .357. He has never lost one of them. If you know your gun and get the practice in just like any other weapon you are going to use, there is no problem with either choice. It all comes down to the same questions you already have, cost of shooting and recoil. Good luck. Don Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Reloader Posted February 10, 2008 Report Share Posted February 10, 2008 Personly I've gotta agree with the comment that what you are comfortable with is the best, as long as it meets minimum caliber or energy requirements if any in your area. I just purchased a 1911 last year and plan to use it for deer next year with special purpose handloads. Didn't use it this year because I wanted a full year of practice first to build confidence and learn my limitations with it. If you limit your shots to ones you are confident you can make, then use what you are comfortable with. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tecumseh Posted February 12, 2008 Report Share Posted February 12, 2008 I'd go with the 44. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hoosierbuck Posted February 18, 2008 Report Share Posted February 18, 2008 I'd go with a .44 Hard to argue with anecdotal evidence. Not that the .357 won't do it, but the .44 WILL, no question, and in fine fashion. HB Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bowana Posted February 21, 2008 Report Share Posted February 21, 2008 The truth of the matter is that most revolver cartridges are marginal for deer hunting at best. Even the mighty 44 mag starts out with about 1200 ft pounds of energy and only retains 500 foot pounds at 100 yards (the recommended minimum Foot pounds of energy to cleanly dispatch a whitetail is 500 ft pounds....but remember, its just a number). The 357 mag loaded with 158 grain bullets has far less. The 357 mag is at its best with 125 grain bullets, but these do not penetrate well on deer.......but....within their limited range they will certainly work. I know a lot of pistol shooters are like bow hunters, they want that hard earned quality kill. In Southern Michigan we have a Late Firearms Antler less only Deer season. I have killed many does with a Colt Python .357 and a Smith Wesson 629 Classic. Most were taken at 30 yards or less. My best was a 130 yard shot with a 475 Wildey Mag. Charles Bronson.....eat your heart out!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hangunnr Posted February 23, 2008 Report Share Posted February 23, 2008 .......... most revolver cartridges are marginal for deer hunting at best. Even the mighty 44 mag........ at 100 yards..... ....The 357 mag is at its best with 125 grain bullets....... .....most revolver cartridges..... I'll have to disagree with this statement. Within their range (as it applies to any firearm) they (let's clairify, 357mag on up) are more than enough to cleanly take a deer sized animal. .... at 100 yards.... While this is a great yardstick to measure something against it really dosen't apply to the average revolver hunter. I've killed perhaps 30 deer with various revolvers and I would hazzard a guess that the average range has been somewhere around 15-18yds. I've never had a shot past 75yds. Now, is there opportunity out there to shoot beyond 75yds....of course, but there are better guns out there if you want to shoot at extended handgun ranges. ...357...125 grain bullets.... The 357 in my experience is at it's best with a 180gr bullet on deer sized game. The Nosler 180gr Partition is the shiznit out of a 357 bore handgun. John, I'm just using your post as reference, I'm not challenging your personal experiences or opinions. hangunnr Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Kid Posted February 24, 2008 Report Share Posted February 24, 2008 i think it will take a deer down, its a very nice looking gun too Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hardwood_HD Posted February 25, 2008 Report Share Posted February 25, 2008 i know quite a few guys that have killed deer with a 357.. i plan on taking the 460s&w out this coming season Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ybronco Posted March 1, 2008 Report Share Posted March 1, 2008 I used a .357 for a long time but I switched to a .44 mag this year due to the increase in bears in my area it is a struggle within because the .357 is such a great round but after my results of this years hunting season my .44 mag will be making the trip with me from now on. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bowana Posted March 13, 2008 Report Share Posted March 13, 2008 I used a .357 for a long time but I switched to a .44 mag this year due to the increase in bears in my area it is a struggle within because the .357 is such a great round but after my results of this years hunting season my .44 mag will be making the trip with me from now on. John, I'm just using your post as reference, I'm not challenging your personal experiences or opinions. hangunnr Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bowana Posted March 13, 2008 Report Share Posted March 13, 2008 John, I'm just using your post as reference, I'm not challenging your personal experiences or opinions. hangunnr Whattt! May the fleas of a thousand Camels infest your arm pits!!! But....Ah......well....I might have to *@#$&$@*@...agree.....with the 180 grain bullet theory....especially at close range! Forgot how fun the Lil' 357 can be, I'm always shoot'in the big stuff these days. Do you use H110 powder with those heavier bullets? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
huntinguide Posted March 18, 2008 Report Share Posted March 18, 2008 This is a little much but here it is. 460 SW Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hangunnr Posted March 18, 2008 Report Share Posted March 18, 2008 Whattt! May the fleas of a thousand Camels infest your arm pits!!! Wondered where all them dang fleas came from....LMAO... Do you use H110 powder with those heavier bullets? I used Lil'gun for the 180's. It will out run H110 by a little but with less pressure. hangunnr Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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