Various cartridges have come and gone over the years. Each of them was born for one particular need or another. Several of them have remained ubiquitous over the years, including the 357. Born out of a desire to increase ballistic penetration for struggling police officers, the 357 cartridge was released in 1935. But what has kept the cartridge popular over the years? And why, in a world filled with polymer pistols, would you want a 357 Revolver?
It Packs a Punch
Power. The 357 cartridge hits HARD. Indeed, that was the goal of its creation. the 38 Specials carried by cops were failing to penetrate properly in gunfights with suspects, and the solution was simple. Smith and Wesson seriously beefed up the cartridge. That fact remains true today. While capacity is certainly a consideration in a self defense firearm, stopping power is a serious consideration as well. The size of the cartridge combined with the amount of powder lends itself to a fearsome round, and the 357 Revolver harnesses that power.
Penetration, as well, is constantly impressive. Given the power, the 357 will punch through whatever is in front of it, except maybe several inches of steel. This can make the 357 revolver a suitable choice for those interested in handgun hunting. A long-barreled 357 revolver is capable of achieving enough penetration to bring down most North American game with ease.
For self defense, the penetration can be good or bad. If you need to punch through light cover to reach your assailant, then penetration is good. However, you must take care not to over-penetrate. You are responsible for every round you fire. Particularly at close range, a 357 round can punch clean through a person.
It’s Manageable
Despite the ferocity of the round, most people find the 357 to be quite manageable. In many ways, the 357 revolver combines the best aspects of the 38 special and the 44 magnum.
Reliability
Revolvers have a reputation for being reliable. For the most part, the reputation is well earned. The revolver is a very simple firearm compared to most semi-automatics. Simplicity means there is less which can go wrong, and that’s not a bad thing.
There’s Lots of Options
The 357 has been around since the 30’s. As such, there are quite a few options when it comes to firearm selection. Most companies that manufacture revolvers make a model chambered in 357. Options are good. They allow everyone to find a specific firearm for their needs and personal preferences. Again, longer barreled guns for hunting are just as common as snub noses for concealment. But even amongst similar models there is a diversity of design.
Ammo is Plentiful
Ammo for a 357 revolver is prolific. Following the same point above when it comes to options due to longevity, numerous companies have created different varieties of ammunition. There exists options for every type of shooting situation you may want ammunition for.
Versatility
The options above make the 357 revolver one of the most versatile handguns around. With a mid length barreled revolver, you could load different types of ammunition and use the same gun for hunting, self defense, or to protect your home.
If you’d like to purchase a 357 revolver, or any other firearms, head over to Spring Guns and Ammo. Our qualified team is happy to help you with any of your firearms needs!
