I took my 1st deer with a 357 40 years ago. I've taken several deer and elk with a 44 mag since then. I carry a 357 for everyday purposes. Both calibers have their pros and cons. Overall, I think the 357 wins the versatility prize though.
My first handgun was a Colt Trooper 357 magnum with a 6" barrel purchased in 1965. Picked it up just before returning to Vietnam. These days I have 357s in 4" and 2". Wouldn't want to be shot from either. I also have a Model 92 carbine that fires 357.
Firearms are tools. Sledgehammers are more powerful than a claw hammer, but you wouldn't want to have to build a house with one. Pick the right tool for the right job. I prefer .357 myself.
I'm in Australia. Pumpkin season is late April through May. We usually stalk them armed with just a knife and take them when they're least expecting it. Early morning and late evening is the best time as it's a lot cooler. I've noticed a lot of Americans on TH-cam hunting them with large caliber firearms. Are there caliber restriction in place for pumpkins? It appears to me that unlike ducks it is considered good etiquette to shoot them when they're standing still? Is this done to ensure a good clean kill? Are there seasons, bag limits or protected species of pumpkin? I always have a problem with them in my vegetable garden. Do you think .22lr would be enough to take one down? I only ever encounter butternuts so they're not overly large. Shooting them looks like a lot more fun than the methods I currently employ and it would save mashing them for soup etc. If you've got any advice I'd love to hear it.
The 9mm is also a bear killer in 2021 because of Ammo Technology Advancement and it has 10 12 15 17 round Magazines the 357 and 44 Magnum revolver is only good for big game protection period
@@killerkraut9179 only 6 to 7 round compasity going up against 12 to 17 round Magazine semiautomatic 9mm with 147gr +p hard cast or 185gr rounds I'll take the 9mm all day long over the 357 and 44 Magnum
@@frankie-stein7649 I think if a Bear attacks its better to kill it with the first one or two rounds i dont think you have the time to use youre capacity !
It depends on the application I suppose. For big furry things with claws the .44 makes the most sense. For antipersonnel I think a good case can be made for the .327. The .357 makes a good all around round. :)
Something that just occurred to me is that with the 44 you might be able to equal 357 "stopping power" at lower velocity. Not sure how you would test that but I think it is an interesting possibility.
I use a 3” .357 Mag for EDC, and have a 7” rigged up to my wheelchair when at home. I prefer Buffalo Bore with the Barnes load. I keep eyeing the .44 Mag. My friend keeps promising me some range time with his. We’ll see...
I love the 357 mag. I use it for deer hunting. I love it so much I have 2 revolvers in it and a lever action rifle. There is so much you can do with it. Especially if you reload. Keep up the great videos.
For me personally out of the 2 I'd go 44 mag. In a heart beat. I feel it is more versatile especially if you are a reloaders. But for the win I'll take the 45 colt when you get into the 30,000 psi loads with the heavy weight 330-350 you get a gun that will be good for mice up to and including moose and you don't have to depend on special bullets to do it. You can use cast and get the lob done nicely. Your 357 work from 25 just amazes me. When at the range I can't even find someone that can shoot as fast and as accurate at 10 yrs. Let a alone 25. Every time I see a description with the word magnum I know it will be a extra cool video and you did not disappoint me. I also love the pumpkins. Thanks for all your hard work and creating fun quality videos and as always you make learning fun
I love 45 colt out of a Blackhawk. I also use 480 ruger out of a Bisley Blackhawk, loaded essentially as a big 45 colt. 340gr bullets at 900 fps, very comfortable and plenty of power for Florida deer and pigs
@@jacobackley502 I agree the 480is a wonderful caliber I've been looking for the short barreled bisley since it came out. Had the super redhawk just have a bed 475/480 and my 5.5 Blackhawk 45 colts
Handloaded XTP bullets in 45 Colt Back in the 90’s Speer manual said it was running around 1300 FPS out of the Blackhawk 3 screw . It got the job done , I really like 45 Colt out of the old heavy Rugers
With 250 gr , published data for Blackhawk will match mainstream generic .44 Mag 240gr , plus have the potential for really heavy cast bullets from the .45 .
Shot .357s for years. Got out of them in early 2000s. For the flash, bang and kick (abuse) i experienced i thought i just as well switch to the .44 mag. Now it seems the "hot" .357s ive shot of late is like firing .38+Ps.
Apparent recoil is very subjective , and the fit between hand, grips , and gun is huge factor , and very personal . Also .357 guns come in huge variety of sizes and weight . I will observe my most painful revolver recoil was 158gr .38 + P from 13oz J Frame for a 50 round qualification . I did it with " Expert " , but my had was bruised the next day . Full power .357 from medium frame gun , you know something has gone off , but with decent technique and keeping up with your practicing is do- able . Federal 180gr .44 , from Mag Na Ported revolver is just barely on the ragged edge of rapid DA , and wasn't possible with same load before porting . ( Pre porting , strictly carried .44 Spl for social purposes , as I only carry factory loaded for real , and at the time there weren't any .44 Mag mid range HP or .44Spl +P factory offerings .)
As a hand loader, .44 magnum has to take the prize as best, most versatile handgun cartridge. 180 grain jacketed to 340 grain cast at whatever velocity strikes your fancy.
decidedly so. nothing more versatile than getting 38 special plinking power to dangerous game power in one cartridge. but the 357 gets a well deserved 2nd place
@@filianablanxart8305 .... Completely Agree , .45 colt +p or +p+ ,is a very devastating round ...and there are good handguns out there to handle them ......But factory .45 Colt does not meet energy requirements for big game regs. and that is what statutes are using .. they do not recognize handloads ..
@@rockytopwrangler2069 Depends on the State , depends on the Regs . And there Are Boutique Mfgs that make hot loads , with impressive Advertised Energy . I know that at one time , were states that explicitly named .357 , .41, .44 Mags . But in modern era with .454 , .480 , .475, .500 , .50 , etc I can't imagine it stayed static and exclusive . But they change often enough I don't keep all 50 states memorized . Of the States in vague proximity to me that state Ft Lbs , 700 Ft lb is highest minimum , and .45 Colt can meet that . Once a caliber is plausibly exceeding requirements generally , no state prohibits the use of handloads . Never Say Never , but few Wardens carry a chronograph into the field to Disprove an otherwise facially legal firearm .
The actual *Best* revolver caliber does exist . But alas it's sales performance was very underwhelming , and guns and factory ammunition much less common than either .357 or .44 . The .41 Magnum .
I really like 'em both. Here in Wyoming, we've got our share of big furry critters with fangs and claws, and we occasionally might even run across a 2-legged varmint in need of an "attitude adjustment." I carry my Taurus 605 for serious social purposes, and out in the boonies, I carry my .44 mag. I don't get around as much as I used to, as I just celebrated my 75th b'day, but my wife and I do occasionally get out into our beautiful forests. Which magnum is better depends on which is better for your needs and your tolerance for recoil and muzzle blast.
having owned both 357 and 44 sp / 44 magnum reloading/ testing my opinion still is for pure power and conceal carry 357 mag 2 inch barrel 536 fpe. my Taurus tracker compact 44 mag 3 inch barrel: note 4 inch barrel and last inch a non rifled chamber with vents . 180 gr xtp 1260 FPS 600 plus pounds of energy. these are my lawyer prof loads not mear maximum. I do carry some . but the stubby 357 and because it’s so easy to conceal would still be my number I chose. you can kill a charging bull , wild hog , a350 pound thug who crashed in your door. that’s all you really need to end the situation. you will never make a bad decision buying a stubby 357 or 44 mag. another wonderful honest test. I love it. Nana and papa aka the hunter wishing you well.
Nice fun test, but I wasn’t holding my breath for the winner either. 😉 I enjoyed the pumpkin carving, hard to believe it’s that time already. Thanks again for the entertaining gun play.
Fun presentation!😁 I know everybody's shooting into ballistic gel these days all over the "Tube", but I personally miss the "Jug-or-Not". Anyone can shoot into a big "Jelly Bar", but it takes a man of conviction to stand up and blast into balogna, fiberboard, and gallons of water! 😱😵😲😆💥💨
I mean, I like the jugs, but the problem is my health is not great and finding 24 gallons to do 2 videos in one trip is difficult, and camera setup is difficult. I can easily film 2 videos in one trip with the gel. In the winter where I NEED to film more than one in an outing, all that water is not good.
@@GunSam Understand the health issues. Being past 70, with multiple ailments makes for a full day just testing two or three loads on paper alone. And my range is virtually just out my back door.
@@Gieszkanne even then 2" is not enough to give you 250 fps gain from a 4" Buffalo Bore advertised velocity is always accurate, they list the velocity for different firearms (with various barrel length) on their site
@@dk1480 I agree with you but if you look at the cost, Buffalo bore is nearly twice the price of Underwood… Underwood ammo is quality at affordable prices
I like how you took the time to edit the video with the slow-mo shots where you allowed it to speed up between the different pumpkin shots instead of allowing the video to play slow between the shots 👍👍
As a fan of big bores... I say 357 mag. If you want buy a 7 or 8 round revolver. Can shoot 38spl in it or 38spl+p. Buy a ruger to load longer 357 bullet loads.
I've had the 8 -shot S&W 627 Performance Center for five months now. Carries nicely, and the recoil from .357 is very mild. .38 recoil is practically non-existent.
I have both rifle and piston in the .357 and I used to have both in .44. I no longer own the .44 mag. arms because they are not what I want. To me the .44 is a pumpkin thrower. It drops like a rock out of either rifle or pistol.
Both are superb cartridges, but each one excels in a different way. The .44 is probably better for very experienced hunters who like the challenge of handgun hunting large/dangerous game, and don't mind the heavy guns, heavy recoil, and expensive ammo. The .357 is a far better self defense round that can be chambered in medium frame guns suitable for CC. The recoil is easier to manage for a larger segment of shooters.and it is still a very good hunting round for medium/non-dangerous game. Also there is a wider selection of magnum and .38 ammo to suit just about every shooter out there. And last but not least, the .357 is also available in 8 shot revolvers. If you want excellent defensive power in a concealable reliable revolver, the .357 would be hard to beat.
Digging them both. But I think the .44 is the more versatile. Target, people, midsize critter, and larger critter. 10mm and .357 will get you up to midsize critter, but you're putting yourself way out on a limb trusting them to a big beastie. I still want them both or all.
When do you think you will encounter a large enough animal that a .357 will not be enough firearm? Like the Alaska State Patrol says, use bear spray to stop it and then use your shotgun to kill it. I used to own both a rifle and pistol in .44 mag. and got rid of both of them. The bullets drop like a rock once fired even with my handloads. I also own both rifle and pistol in .357 mag. and on my ranch they have become my truck guns. .357 is to heavy to use as a concealed carry firearm unless you have suspenders. The only thing I might encounter on my place is a bear that might need a bullet ball bounce off its pumpkin head and my .40 S@W will do that nicely, and I can carry it and keep my pants up.
Depends on the job you are going to be using them for. Love to shoot both calibers at the range. Love to carry 357 mag for ccw. But only use my 44mag to hunt deer with.
A 44 mag is supposed to penetrate. If it penetrates into next week that is super. BTW, I'm getting better than 1700 fps with my 240s so Underwood has a lot of wiggle room to grow. Thanks for the vid.
Another great presentation. Bothe calibers have their niche. Everyone needs to be comfortable with a hot .357 before they handle the .44. Plus, being a handloader, both of these are awesome to reload! From plinking to full on "beast" power. On a "bunny trail".... Carbines like the Henry with the chambering in .44 makes a perfect brush gun for deer..
i have a 10 in. 44 mag it is deadly at 50 yds. just like 25 yards both guns are great machines!! heavy to carry hard to hide very very loud but accurate to 75 yds. much better than 9 mm or 380 worlds apart
I like them both. Carried a 357 as a duty weapon for a while and even a 44mag on occasion mainly with 44spl ammo. But if I had to pick one especially as a combo with a carbine I'd probably go with the 44mag.
As Inspector Harry Callahan said in the film Magnum Force after he meets the four motorcycle cops at the shooting range, “A light special. This size gun gives me better control and less recoil than a.357 Magnum with wadcutters.” Well, I have yet to fire a .44 Magnum. And despite the popularity of the round, thanks to the Dirty Harry films, it’s not about the gun. It’s about the person. Even though, in these films the gun with the more powerful ammunition in the hand of a capable person is just as much a part of the character(or it becomes a character in its own right). It distinguishes the character above all others. Hunting and home defense is what the .44 magnum is suited for primarily. Everyday carry might not be wise unless the barrel is 4 inches in length. In my humble opinion, the .357 Magnum pretty much covers all the bases, especially in self defense and hunting. It is primarily up to the individual’s interest, in skills , purpose of use and taste (maybe, I am speculating on this). As long as the the platform can handle the stresses of the round. Both rounds can be used in sport shooting.
I have a few 38s (S&W) a 637, blued round butt 38 no dash that was shipped in 1974. I also have an old school model 12-2 (Blued round butt) mint. I know this video was 357/44mag however i know you like the 38 as i do , however i do not own a 357 nor a 44mag. I'm interested in buying but torn between the 357-44mag. I know if i go with the 357 4inch i could load either the 38/ 357 which is quit nice. Idk what i just may pick up both haha. Great video brother keep em coming. Correction the model 12-2 is actually a square butt
Yeah, it's fun when the calibers get big. I also have fun doing things, knowing i'm easily pulling off "impossible" things, which makes me feel good. And i'm no Jerry Miculek.
Honestly my go to between the two would be .357 Magnum. Even in this time of ammo being in short supply, it's easier to find .357 or .38 Special than it is .44 Special or .44 Magnum, its usually a lot cheaper by comparison too. But even from a performance standpoint, for personal protection a lot of your factory ammo for .38's and .357's are geared towards that where .44 is typically more towards hunting. But, hunting loads for .357 can be found quite easily and there's plenty of data that shows a .357 penetrates deeper on wild and dangerous game which makes it suitable for things like bear potentially too. That all being said, another advantage is capacity per frame size. A typical 6 shot frame holds 5 in .44. But going to the larger frame sizes, the .357 can get up to 8, where the .44 is stuck at 6 for now. Ammo tends to weigh less on the .357 as well so it's another small advantage. It's simply more versatile and for most people I think that works in their favor. If they need to go specialized because they handgun hunt a lot, the .44 may work better for them. It's what it was made to do and for something large like Elk or Moose, while I'm positive with the right load and the right shot a .357 could end them just fine, I know I would prefer the .44 for that given situation.
I pretty much agree. I mean, a good .44 Special that's loaded hot really compares well to a normal .357 Magnum, but for the average person it would be extremely rare to find .44 Special ammo at a store, unlikely to find .44 Magnum but a decent chance of finding .38 Special especially and possibly .357 Magnum.
I didn’t know this was even a question. I would think the real question is what can the shooter handle. “ the 357 magnum can accomplish 95% of what any handgun can be expected to do, and is the magnum that most of us have, at least the potential, to master.” To paraphrase the great John Taffin. The 44 magnum can do 100% of what a handgun can be expected to accomplish, but few can master it at the upper limits of its capability. But, with 44 cowboy loads, 44 Russians, 44 specials, light magnum loads and dinosaur Killers from Buffalo Bore, Garret hammer heads, etc., it can accommodate any situation. Having said that, the vast majority people will be better off with the 357 magnum. Ed McGivern said there would never be a more Versatile cartridge or more capable performance in a more convenient package in a handgun ever developed, then the 357 magnum. I think he is right.
@@GunSam I am glad you did. I love that you bring much needed attention to revolvers and revolver calibers. Both of these calibers can do absolutely anything popular calibers of today can do, and much much more. Thanks for the video.
If the word you want to use is Versatility and with that it has to be for the 357 magnum. There is simply more over the counter 357 ammo types. Then if you reload, in most of the reloading manuals the section for 357 is often the largest of the whole manual. I'd bet there is almost twice the bullet types for the 357 than with the 44. If you have a sidearm in 357 then the logical choice would be to have a rifle in that chambering. Same ammo for a sidearm shot out of a long barreled rifle you get 500 - 700 FPS increase because of the long barrel.
I agree with most of that . All the choices are not GOOD Choices . Not long ago a 125 gr JHP wouldn't work well in the snubby 357 for Sam , a softer LSWC-HP with a huge HP would have worked better .
Liking and posting for that catchy Al Gore Rhythm! Staying for the great, intelligent commentary! Great comparison. I'm surprised there wasn't a greater difference.
I like these types of comparisons, IMO any magnum is the correct choice. If I might suggest, I think adding Elmer Keith’s 3rd magnum to the equation would make for some excellent comparisons/content! 🤔😎 I speak of course of the 41 magnum.
I have thought about it for some time, however the ammo choices being so few would make such a revolver not a great investment for videos. Now, a 10mm revolver that can also shoot .40 (which no one buys anymore so lots of ammo out there), makes a ton of sense and we are near an average .41 with a hot 10mm.
I like the 41 Mag too. The problem is the lack of bullets for it. Sierra makes a 170, and everyone makes a 210. And that's it. Even casting your own doesn't help much. Way back in the day Herters had a 405 mag which was supposedly a true 10 mm. Something like that compatible with 40 S&W bullets would be great. By the way, Henry makes (or did make) a 41 Mag lever action.
Another fun video comparison of the old rivalry. 357 or 44 are both correct answers. For the hand loader the versatility really goes to the 44. Really light 44 S&W special loads run around 270 foot lbs similar to a light 38 special load. The 44 magnum heavy loads can achieve around 1300 ft lbs where as the 357 is capable of around 900.
Better than what I used in the day , when the best two .44spl options of Silvertip and Federal 200gr Lead HP . FWIW , for me , in my hands , my stance , and my gun , the Federal 200 LHP .44spl shot to same POI as full power 240gr .44mag . Those Silvertips and Federal LHP would have been excellent loads , IF they actual acheved the advertised 900 fps , instead of low 700's ( measured from 4 inch actual .44 Special revolver , not the snub nosed .44mag mentioned elsewhere in these comments .)
Very Interesting , with these specific loads ! The .357 125gr has typical expected velocities , but with substantially more penetration than typical mainstream 125 jhp . The .44 180gr has significantly Less velocity than most 180 gr .44 , which is usually a screamer at 1500 plus . But in this instance , that's a Good Thing , giving ( comparitively ) moderate recoil for good control , and penetration no worse ( no deeper ) that to be expected of .45acp 230 fmj . This makes the Underwood 180 on the very short list of .44 Mag loads somewhat plausible for daily carry while somewhat plausible for large critters . For PSA if anyone actually deciding between .357 mag and .44mag for first/ only/ primary revolver , the Global Answer is : .357 is extremely versatile , with very wide range of common loads from everyone . And is optimal for ( human) self defense . .44 Mag is a specialized gun ( with the vast majority of commonly available Magnum ammunition ) . The potential for versatility is dependent upon this specific load , or just maybe Silvertip . In general ,the related questions should be .357 Mag vs .44 Special vs .45 Colt , for versitile all around revolver .
The best magnum is the biggest magnum you have.😎 Where the hell did Underwood get those numbers from? That's some Hornady level fake number optimism right there. Buffalo Bore>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Underwood.
I know. I mean, Underwood makes some great semi auto loads that beat Buffalo Bore, but for revolvers it's the opposite hence why I have done a few videos of stuff like 10mm VS .357 Mag and others where I use Underwood for the auto and BB for the revolver. I know they use a 6" test barrel for .357 Mag, but that still don't add up as in my experience researching numbers a 4" and 6" only differ by maybe 50 FPS.
Since the .357 Mag comes in a lighter gun (Manurhin MR73 or m19 S&W) it wins, if the intended use is defense against bad guys. If your imagined antagonists have claws and teeth, the .357 Mag may still win for most people, since few can hit the inside of a barn with a hot .44 Mag under real life conditions. I might even suggest they should go for the 10mm Auto with plenty of fire power, since they will miss a lot.
@@romanmorgan1434 I agree , but some people can't handle a full power 44 in a handgun . The #1 reason I got rid of my 357s was the blast & recoil from a 4" with 125gr JHP @ 1,400 fps = the common man stopper load . I would rather have a 44Special +P Or 44 rifle . Less blast , same power . For carry , both are better down loaded . It's not the recoil as much as the blast , the 44 charter Arms has solid recoil with any P+ 44 Specials .
@@danoneill2846 I bought a cheap Taurus tracker 44 for 400 bucks it shoots just as good as the more expensive ones like Smith or Ruger but they may have a better trigger but you save a lot of money 🤑💰
@@tommygatch I just think, at least where I shoot a .38 would be fun in a rifle as the muzzle sound would be reduced and a nice 158 gr bullet doing 800 FPS or so would make a nice sound on whatever it hits.
Excellent video as always, very informative and truly impressive accuracy, especially at 25 yards. Ever considered making an accurate handgun/revolver shooting video? I know I'd watch it.
According to a few books I’ve read from gun shot data the 357 magnum or 357 sig with 125 grain projectile they have the best stop rate by far in real world shooting. One thing of note I don’t think people realize all light for caliber loads were better for EACH caliber for example 9mm 115 grain, 357 125, 40. 155 or 165, 10mm 165, 45acp 180 all worked best
Interesting. I have always found 240 gr .44 Mag easier and nicer to shoot than a 125 gr .357 Mag. Way too much flash, blast, noise, and vibration on the 125 gr. .357. Generally, heavier and slower bullets I find more pleasant to shoot (maybe that's why I also like .45 Colt). Curious what would happen if you shot that .44 with a long barrel (7.5") SA revolver (plow handle) and just let it gently roll in your hand? I expect the difference in results would be more pronounced, and the recoil would be substantially milder.
The SUPER Blackhawk comes down to wether the square backed trigger gaurd rapps your knuckle. For *Me* it does , and that seems to be the case with about 1/3 of shooters . The "regular " XR3 or XR3- RED works fine for me with .41 and most Ruger Only .45 with standard wright bullets . Ruger Bisley is great for the heaviest of recoil , but To Me does not point as naturally as XR3 or Colt SAA . FWIW , the best combination of handling extreme recoil , And natural pointing is the Freedom Arms , but that's a different catagory of $$ .
First of all why use 125 gr. bullets in a .357? I have hunted and reloaded for my .357's for many years. I use 140 grain bullets giving me a compromise between velocity and weight. Three elk have tasted those bullets and dropped where they were shot. I can load those 125 grain bullets to come out of my rifle at 2200 fps pretty easy but it becomes hard to hit the lid of a 5 gal. bucket at fifty yards.
@@russellkeeling9712 "First of all why use 125 gr. bullets in a .357" -- Because those are being heavily pushed as the ultimate defense loadings. If you read the rest of my post, you will see I am fully in agreement with you. I find heavier bullets much easier to shoot accurately out of the .357.
Because the ( full power) 125 JHP as a class ARE the definitive ( human) self defense loading . But of course , for hunting , or even dual purpose defense against large critters in addition to human felons , there are different parameters . And indeed bullets in the 140- ish weight class can fall in there .
Thanks. Yeah I've argued this before. The .357 Mag uses half the material as the .45 auto, but easily is more effective. And .38 Special is the same powder charge as 9mm usually, so cheap shooting all around.
I use both calibers. I tend to run all balls ammo because they're for carry in areas where toothy hungry predators are present. They're always present, they often don't care for a fight with an awkward monkey man who carries lightning ⚡ on his belt. If they choose to engage, they're usually very hungry and don't care. Those need to be dealt with in a fashion exhibiting extreme force, and judicial prejudice to that creature specifically
Of course. The FBI dropped the pumpkin portion of the ballistic testing once they dropped the 10mm, as it didn't give definitive results anymore. True story. I mean, it's true that it's a story.
Yeah, all .44 Mag in the handgun caliber charts shows it all over 90% one shot, don't matter if it's 165 or 240 gr or in between, it's all effective consistently.
Did you say the rated the rounds at 1700 fps? You think they might have tested those rounds out of rifles? Or, I could possibly heard what you first said wrong. Wouldn't be the first. From what I have seen from all the videos I watch is Underwood makes fantastic ammo. I learned something new from you today, i was not aware that a lower weighted round actually has less felt recoil. That is going to be helpful for me for sure. Keep up the great work. Without question the 357 magnum is way more versatile. The number of different bullet types and loads is way higher. Plus you can shoot 38 and 38+p and all their assortment of rounds. And although you can shoot 44 spec in the 44 magnum, 44 magnum is much more expensive and harder to find where I live and right now the price point here for both 44 is the same. The 38 is much cheaper than the 357 magnum and that is cheaper than the 44s. I am saving up for a Marlin 357 rifle to hunt with when I can't use tapered rounds.
Underwood rates this ammo from a 6" revolver. That being said, I have tested other ammo rated at 1,700 like Buffalo Bore that shows a 6" revolver rating, and I get at least 1,600 FPS with that, so Underwood needs to fix their ratings.
@@GunSam I concur they need to ensure they are doing their due diligence. I have never personally seen any handgun, from a handgun (other than the super bore like the 460 and S&W 500) have that kind of velocity. Though Underwood and Buffalo Bore are known to run hot and fast. I don't think I need to ask you to keep up the good work as it appears to me to be just who you are. I will say thank you for your work.
I took my 1st deer with a 357 40 years ago. I've taken several deer and elk with a 44 mag since then. I carry a 357 for everyday purposes. Both calibers have their pros and cons. Overall, I think the 357 wins the versatility prize though.
My first handgun was a Colt Trooper 357 magnum with a 6" barrel purchased in 1965. Picked it up just before returning to Vietnam.
These days I have 357s in 4" and 2". Wouldn't want to be shot from either. I also have a Model 92 carbine that fires 357.
@@Me2Lancer Thank you for your service sir.
My thanks to you, as well.
@@Me2Lancer LOL I got one of them along with an old Python
Firearms are tools. Sledgehammers are more powerful than a claw hammer, but you wouldn't want to have to build a house with one. Pick the right tool for the right job. I prefer .357 myself.
and SO MANY ammo choices...
357 a man killer... the 44 mag a bear killer.. yet both do well at destroying the Pumpkin ..fun vlog...
I'm in Australia. Pumpkin season is late April through May. We usually stalk them armed with just a knife and take them when they're least expecting it. Early morning and late evening is the best time as it's a lot cooler.
I've noticed a lot of Americans on TH-cam hunting them with large caliber firearms. Are there caliber restriction in place for pumpkins?
It appears to me that unlike ducks it is considered good etiquette to shoot them when they're standing still? Is this done to ensure a good clean kill? Are there seasons, bag limits or protected species of pumpkin?
I always have a problem with them in my vegetable garden. Do you think .22lr would be enough to take one down? I only ever encounter butternuts so they're not overly large. Shooting them looks like a lot more fun than the methods I currently employ and it would save mashing them for soup etc. If you've got any advice I'd love to hear it.
The 9mm is also a bear killer in 2021 because of Ammo Technology Advancement and it has 10 12 15 17 round Magazines the 357 and 44 Magnum revolver is only good for big game protection period
@@frankie-stein7649 357 and 44 Magnum is still stronger
@@killerkraut9179 only 6 to 7 round compasity going up against 12 to 17 round Magazine semiautomatic 9mm with 147gr +p hard cast or 185gr rounds I'll take the 9mm all day long over the 357 and 44 Magnum
@@frankie-stein7649 I think if a Bear attacks its better to kill it with the first one or two rounds i dont think you have the time to use youre capacity !
.44 Special loaded in a magnum revolver is such a smooth shooter!
Having both is the best caliber!!!
It depends on the application I suppose. For big furry things with claws the .44 makes the most sense. For antipersonnel I think a good case can be made for the .327. The .357 makes a good all around round. :)
Surprisingly, lots of data shows .357 penetrates deeper than .44 Magnum for wild game defense.
The .327 would work well for defense. They need to start making ammo for it again.
@@rorybybee5937 .327 is just the old 32-20 recycled.
Something that just occurred to me is that with the 44 you might be able to equal 357 "stopping power" at lower velocity. Not sure how you would test that but I think it is an interesting possibility.
Both look pretty accommodating to me! Personally, my first revolver was a .357 and I’ve never looked back!
They’re both Elmer Keith’s babies ,.. but I am partial to the 357.
I use a 3” .357 Mag for EDC, and have a 7” rigged up to my wheelchair when at home. I prefer Buffalo Bore with the Barnes load. I keep eyeing the .44 Mag. My friend keeps promising me some range time with his. We’ll see...
I love the 357 mag. I use it for deer hunting. I love it so much I have 2 revolvers in it and a lever action rifle. There is so much you can do with it. Especially if you reload. Keep up the great videos.
Thanks. I only handgun hunted once 10 years ago, but I missed a huge buck with my 6" model 629.
Great test! I like the MDF testing because it's more real world. Hollow points do funny things and bare gel testing alone can be misleading.
Thanks. Yeah, i'm hooked on it. Pain to clean out but it's worth it to me.
For me personally out of the 2 I'd go 44 mag. In a heart beat. I feel it is more versatile especially if you are a reloaders. But for the win I'll take the 45 colt when you get into the 30,000 psi loads with the heavy weight 330-350 you get a gun that will be good for mice up to and including moose and you don't have to depend on special bullets to do it. You can use cast and get the lob done nicely.
Your 357 work from 25 just amazes me. When at the range I can't even find someone that can shoot as fast and as accurate at 10 yrs. Let a alone 25. Every time I see a description with the word magnum I know it will be a extra cool video and you did not disappoint me. I also love the pumpkins. Thanks for all your hard work and creating fun quality videos and as always you make learning fun
I love 45 colt out of a Blackhawk. I also use 480 ruger out of a Bisley Blackhawk, loaded essentially as a big 45 colt. 340gr bullets at 900 fps, very comfortable and plenty of power for Florida deer and pigs
@@jacobackley502 I agree the 480is a wonderful caliber I've been looking for the short barreled bisley since it came out. Had the super redhawk just have a bed 475/480 and my 5.5 Blackhawk 45 colts
Handloaded XTP bullets in 45 Colt Back in the 90’s Speer manual said it was running around 1300 FPS out of the Blackhawk 3 screw . It got the job done , I really like 45 Colt out of the old heavy Rugers
With 250 gr , published data for Blackhawk will match mainstream generic .44 Mag 240gr , plus have the potential for really heavy cast bullets from the .45 .
Shot .357s for years. Got out of them in early 2000s. For the flash, bang and kick (abuse) i experienced i thought i just as well switch to the .44 mag.
Now it seems the "hot" .357s ive shot of late is like firing .38+Ps.
"the flash, bang and kick (abuse)" turned into a 38+p? Maybe you didn't go the right direction in the 44. hahaha
Apparent recoil is very subjective , and the fit between hand, grips , and gun is huge factor , and very personal . Also .357 guns come in huge variety of sizes and weight .
I will observe my most painful revolver recoil was 158gr .38 + P from 13oz J Frame for a 50 round qualification . I did it with " Expert " , but my had was bruised the next day .
Full power .357 from medium frame gun , you know something has gone off , but with decent technique and keeping up with your practicing is do- able . Federal 180gr .44 , from Mag Na Ported revolver is just barely on the ragged edge of rapid DA , and wasn't possible with same load before porting . ( Pre porting , strictly carried .44 Spl for social purposes , as I only carry factory loaded for real , and at the time there weren't any .44 Mag mid range HP or .44Spl +P factory offerings .)
Definitely. My GP100 seems to kick more than my Blackhawk with the same load.
As a hand loader, .44 magnum has to take the prize as best, most versatile handgun cartridge. 180 grain jacketed to 340 grain cast at whatever velocity strikes your fancy.
decidedly so. nothing more versatile than getting 38 special plinking power to dangerous game power in one cartridge. but the 357 gets a well deserved 2nd place
Handloaders of .45 Colt ( in strong revolvers ) would claim parity with handloaders of .44 Mag .
@@filianablanxart8305 I’m one of those too, and .45 Colt runs a close second overall. It’s probably a superior field cartridge.
@@filianablanxart8305 .... Completely Agree , .45 colt +p or +p+ ,is a very devastating round ...and there are good handguns out there to handle them ......But factory .45 Colt does not meet energy requirements for big game regs. and that is what statutes are using .. they do not recognize handloads ..
@@rockytopwrangler2069 Depends on the State , depends on the Regs .
And there Are Boutique Mfgs that make hot loads , with impressive Advertised Energy .
I know that at one time , were states that explicitly named .357 , .41, .44 Mags . But in modern era with .454 , .480 , .475, .500 , .50 , etc I can't imagine it stayed static and exclusive . But they change often enough I don't keep all 50 states memorized .
Of the States in vague proximity to me that state Ft Lbs , 700 Ft lb is highest minimum , and .45 Colt can meet that .
Once a caliber is plausibly exceeding requirements generally , no state prohibits the use of handloads . Never Say Never , but few Wardens carry a chronograph into the field to Disprove an otherwise facially legal firearm .
The 357 mag is great for general purposes and when you need that extra insurance the 44 mag
The actual *Best* revolver caliber does exist . But alas it's sales performance was very underwhelming , and guns and factory ammunition much less common than either .357 or .44 .
The .41 Magnum .
Great shooting especially at 25 yards with the .44 magnum.
I really like 'em both. Here in Wyoming, we've got our share of big furry critters with fangs and claws, and we occasionally might even run across a 2-legged varmint in need of an "attitude adjustment." I carry my Taurus 605 for serious social purposes, and out in the boonies, I carry my .44 mag. I don't get around as much as I used to, as I just celebrated my 75th b'day, but my wife and I do occasionally get out into our beautiful forests. Which magnum is better depends on which is better for your needs and your tolerance for recoil and muzzle blast.
having owned both 357 and 44 sp / 44 magnum reloading/ testing my opinion still is for pure power and conceal carry 357 mag 2 inch barrel 536 fpe. my Taurus tracker compact 44 mag 3 inch barrel: note 4 inch barrel and last inch a non rifled chamber with vents . 180 gr xtp 1260 FPS 600 plus pounds of energy. these are my lawyer prof loads not mear maximum. I do carry some . but the stubby 357 and because it’s so easy to conceal would still be my number I chose. you can kill a charging bull , wild hog , a350 pound thug who crashed in your door. that’s all you really need to end the situation. you will never make a bad decision buying a stubby 357 or 44 mag. another wonderful honest test. I love it. Nana and papa aka the hunter wishing you well.
Nice fun test, but I wasn’t holding my breath for the winner either. 😉 I enjoyed the pumpkin carving, hard to believe it’s that time already. Thanks again for the entertaining gun play.
Yeah, only winner is us!
Fun presentation!😁
I know everybody's shooting into ballistic gel these days all over the "Tube", but I personally miss the "Jug-or-Not". Anyone can shoot into a big "Jelly Bar", but it takes a man of conviction to stand up and blast into balogna, fiberboard, and gallons of water! 😱😵😲😆💥💨
I mean, I like the jugs, but the problem is my health is not great and finding 24 gallons to do 2 videos in one trip is difficult, and camera setup is difficult. I can easily film 2 videos in one trip with the gel. In the winter where I NEED to film more than one in an outing, all that water is not good.
@@GunSam Understand the health issues. Being past 70, with multiple ailments makes for a full day just testing two or three loads on paper alone. And my range is virtually just out my back door.
Now That is the fun way to carve pumpkins! My preference is .357, more manageable and I like being able to also use .38 rounds for targets.
From a place you will not see will come a sound you will never hear so neither of these will work in a fight I'm fighting!
My EDC is a mod 19-5 S&W 2 1/2 bbl .357 mag. Fits into my right front pocket.👍🏻
Depends on if my quary is 2 legged or 4 legged, esp if the 4 legs are attached to a Grizzzz! 🐘🐅🐫🦧🦍🐖🦘🦛!
ammo choice matters
Next year , you may have a Pumpkin Patch there !
The deer will probably eat all the seeds in a day
Underwood's advertised velocity for magnum revolvers are always too optimistic
Same with Hornady.
@@mmabagain Same with pretty much everybody.
I guess they take at least a 6 inch. I dont think they lie.
@@Gieszkanne even then 2" is not enough to give you 250 fps gain from a 4"
Buffalo Bore advertised velocity is always accurate, they list the velocity for different firearms (with various barrel length) on their site
@@dk1480 I agree with you but if you look at the cost, Buffalo bore is nearly twice the price of Underwood… Underwood ammo is quality at affordable prices
Very informative video, and it looks like you are having all at the same time! Excellent work!
I like how you took the time to edit the video with the slow-mo shots where you allowed it to speed up between the different pumpkin shots instead of allowing the video to play slow between the shots 👍👍
Yeah lol. I figured that might help.
.357 magnum please! It still reigns supreme. Great testing of Underwood ammo Sam! Keep shooting it!🎩☯️♠️
Thank you.
@@GunSam Yw Sam
As a fan of big bores... I say 357 mag. If you want buy a 7 or 8 round revolver. Can shoot 38spl in it or 38spl+p. Buy a ruger to load longer 357 bullet loads.
I've had the 8 -shot S&W 627 Performance Center for five months now. Carries nicely, and the recoil from .357 is very mild. .38 recoil is practically non-existent.
@@tylermorrison7051 nutnfancy's son carries the s&w 'tactical' 8 shot 357 with the 4" barrel...he uses a boot grip on it.😊
I have both rifle and piston in the .357 and I used to have both in .44. I no longer own the .44 mag. arms because they are not what I want. To me the .44 is a pumpkin thrower. It drops like a rock out of either rifle or pistol.
Both are superb cartridges, but each one excels in a different way. The .44 is probably better for very experienced hunters who like the challenge of handgun hunting large/dangerous game, and don't mind the heavy guns, heavy recoil, and expensive ammo. The .357 is a far better self defense round that can be chambered in medium frame guns suitable for CC. The recoil is easier to manage for a larger segment of shooters.and it is still a very good hunting round for medium/non-dangerous game. Also there is a wider selection of magnum and .38 ammo to suit just about every shooter out there. And last but not least, the .357 is also available in 8 shot revolvers. If you want excellent defensive power in a concealable reliable revolver, the .357 would be hard to beat.
Digging them both.
But I think the .44 is the more versatile. Target, people, midsize critter, and larger critter.
10mm and .357 will get you up to midsize critter, but you're putting yourself way out on a limb trusting them to a big beastie.
I still want them both or all.
When do you think you will encounter a large enough animal that a .357 will not be enough firearm? Like the Alaska State Patrol says, use bear spray to stop it and then use your shotgun to kill it. I used to own both a rifle and pistol in .44 mag. and got rid of both of them. The bullets drop like a rock once fired even with my handloads. I also own both rifle and pistol in .357 mag. and on my ranch they have become my truck guns. .357 is to heavy to use as a concealed carry firearm unless you have suspenders. The only thing I might encounter on my place is a bear that might need a bullet ball bounce off its pumpkin head and my .40 S@W will do that nicely, and I can carry it and keep my pants up.
Depends on the job you are going to be using them for. Love to shoot both calibers at the range. Love to carry 357 mag for ccw. But only use my 44mag to hunt deer with.
Easy answer, 41 magnum
Hard to find ammo for 41 pointless caliber
It's 1000% practical to shoot a handgun past 25 yards. Not only is it practical it's quite normal. At least it is for me.
A 44 mag is supposed to penetrate. If it penetrates into next week that is super. BTW, I'm getting better than 1700 fps with my 240s so Underwood has a lot of wiggle room to grow. Thanks for the vid.
Another great presentation. Bothe calibers have their niche. Everyone needs to be comfortable with a hot .357 before they handle the .44. Plus, being a handloader, both of these are awesome to reload! From plinking to full on "beast" power. On a "bunny trail".... Carbines like the Henry with the chambering in .44 makes a perfect brush gun for deer..
Thanks.
i have a 10 in. 44 mag it is deadly at 50 yds. just like 25 yards both guns are great machines!! heavy to carry hard to hide very very loud but accurate to 75 yds. much better than 9 mm or 380 worlds apart
Good shooting Sam.
Thank you
Only thing missing now is a .41 magnum
@@nicholasroberts9618 Nah lol, not enough ammo choices. I'd just assume get a 10mm revolver if I want that diameter.
@@GunSam You as a reloader dont have that problem.
I am definitely getting a 44 Mag.... 🎈🥳🎈
I like them both. Carried a 357 as a duty weapon for a while and even a 44mag on occasion mainly with 44spl ammo.
But if I had to pick one especially as a combo with a carbine I'd probably go with the 44mag.
“You be the judge” - I love it!
As Inspector Harry Callahan said in the film Magnum Force after he meets the four motorcycle cops at the shooting range, “A light special. This size gun gives me better control and less recoil than a.357 Magnum with wadcutters.”
Well, I have yet to fire a .44 Magnum. And despite the popularity of the round, thanks to the Dirty Harry films, it’s not about the gun. It’s about the person. Even though, in these films the gun with the more powerful ammunition in the hand of a capable person is just as much a part of the character(or it becomes a character in its own right). It distinguishes the character above all others.
Hunting and home defense is what the .44 magnum is suited for primarily. Everyday carry might not be wise unless the barrel is 4 inches in length.
In my humble opinion, the .357 Magnum pretty much covers all the bases, especially in self defense and hunting.
It is primarily up to the individual’s interest, in skills , purpose of use and taste (maybe, I am speculating on this). As long as the the platform can handle the stresses of the round.
Both rounds can be used in sport shooting.
357 is a great back up to 44. Both are my choice!
Awesome stuff as always my man! :-)
Thanks a lot!
I have a few 38s (S&W) a 637, blued round butt 38 no dash that was shipped in 1974. I also have an old school model 12-2 (Blued round butt) mint. I know this video was 357/44mag however i know you like the 38 as i do , however i do not own a 357 nor a 44mag. I'm interested in buying but torn between the 357-44mag. I know if i go with the 357 4inch i could load either the 38/ 357 which is quit nice. Idk what i just may pick up both haha. Great video brother keep em coming. Correction the model 12-2 is actually a square butt
Thanks. I'd go with a .357 if I had to choose one. If you want power the Buffalo Bore .357 Mag is just as powerful as this particular .44 Magnum ammo.
@@GunSam Thank you sir
Having fun all at the same time.
Yeah, it's fun when the calibers get big. I also have fun doing things, knowing i'm easily pulling off "impossible" things, which makes me feel good. And i'm no Jerry Miculek.
44 mag with ported barrel.. very comfortable to shoot..
Honestly my go to between the two would be .357 Magnum. Even in this time of ammo being in short supply, it's easier to find .357 or .38 Special than it is .44 Special or .44 Magnum, its usually a lot cheaper by comparison too. But even from a performance standpoint, for personal protection a lot of your factory ammo for .38's and .357's are geared towards that where .44 is typically more towards hunting. But, hunting loads for .357 can be found quite easily and there's plenty of data that shows a .357 penetrates deeper on wild and dangerous game which makes it suitable for things like bear potentially too.
That all being said, another advantage is capacity per frame size. A typical 6 shot frame holds 5 in .44. But going to the larger frame sizes, the .357 can get up to 8, where the .44 is stuck at 6 for now. Ammo tends to weigh less on the .357 as well so it's another small advantage. It's simply more versatile and for most people I think that works in their favor. If they need to go specialized because they handgun hunt a lot, the .44 may work better for them. It's what it was made to do and for something large like Elk or Moose, while I'm positive with the right load and the right shot a .357 could end them just fine, I know I would prefer the .44 for that given situation.
I pretty much agree. I mean, a good .44 Special that's loaded hot really compares well to a normal .357 Magnum, but for the average person it would be extremely rare to find .44 Special ammo at a store, unlikely to find .44 Magnum but a decent chance of finding .38 Special especially and possibly .357 Magnum.
I didn’t know this was even a question. I would think the real question is what can the shooter handle. “ the 357 magnum can accomplish 95% of what any handgun can be expected to do, and is the magnum that most of us have, at least the potential, to master.” To paraphrase the great John Taffin. The 44 magnum can do 100% of what a handgun can be expected to accomplish, but few can master it at the upper limits of its capability. But, with 44 cowboy loads, 44 Russians, 44 specials, light magnum loads and dinosaur Killers from Buffalo Bore, Garret hammer heads, etc., it can accommodate any situation. Having said that, the vast majority people will be better off with the 357 magnum. Ed McGivern said there would never be a more Versatile cartridge or more capable performance in a more convenient package in a handgun ever developed, then the 357 magnum. I think he is right.
Not really a practical question. Just shooting them both is all i'm here for.
@@GunSam I am glad you did. I love that you bring much needed attention to revolvers and revolver calibers. Both of these calibers can do absolutely anything popular calibers of today can do, and much much more. Thanks for the video.
than.
👍🙂 I’ll stick with my 44 🤷♂️
If the word you want to use is Versatility and with that it has to be for the 357 magnum. There is simply more over the counter 357 ammo types. Then if you reload, in most of the reloading manuals the section for 357 is often the largest of the whole manual. I'd bet there is almost twice the bullet types for the 357 than with the 44. If you have a sidearm in 357 then the logical choice would be to have a rifle in that chambering. Same ammo for a sidearm shot out of a long barreled rifle you get 500 - 700 FPS increase because of the long barrel.
I agree with most of that . All the choices are not GOOD Choices . Not long ago a 125 gr JHP wouldn't work well in the snubby 357 for Sam , a softer LSWC-HP with a huge HP would have worked better .
Liking and posting for that catchy Al Gore Rhythm! Staying for the great, intelligent commentary!
Great comparison. I'm surprised there wasn't a greater difference.
IMHO both are the (BEST) just depends on "what the object of the exercise is".
I like these types of comparisons, IMO any magnum is the correct choice. If I might suggest, I think adding Elmer Keith’s 3rd magnum to the equation would make for some excellent comparisons/content! 🤔😎 I speak of course of the 41 magnum.
I have thought about it for some time, however the ammo choices being so few would make such a revolver not a great investment for videos. Now, a 10mm revolver that can also shoot .40 (which no one buys anymore so lots of ammo out there), makes a ton of sense and we are near an average .41 with a hot 10mm.
I like the 41 Mag too. The problem is the lack of bullets for it. Sierra makes a 170, and everyone makes a 210. And that's it. Even casting your own doesn't help much.
Way back in the day Herters had a 405 mag which was supposedly a true 10 mm. Something like that compatible with 40 S&W bullets would be great.
By the way, Henry makes (or did make) a 41 Mag lever action.
Another fun video comparison of the old rivalry. 357 or 44 are both correct answers. For the hand loader the versatility really goes to the 44. Really light 44 S&W special loads run around 270 foot lbs similar to a light 38 special load. The 44 magnum heavy loads can achieve around 1300 ft lbs where as the 357 is capable of around 900.
Had to get both
Both are great calibers, but if I was going to carry a 44 for self defense I'd probably load it with 44 special. Great video. 👍
I keep it loaded with Buffalo Bore copper HP .44 Special, about 480 FPE, easy to control and huge HP expansion.
Better than what I used in the day , when the best two .44spl options of Silvertip and Federal 200gr Lead HP . FWIW , for me , in my hands , my stance , and my gun , the Federal 200 LHP .44spl shot to same POI as full power 240gr .44mag .
Those Silvertips and Federal LHP would have been excellent loads , IF they actual acheved the advertised 900 fps , instead of low 700's ( measured from 4 inch actual .44 Special revolver , not the snub nosed .44mag mentioned elsewhere in these comments .)
u seam too be the best or close. of gun vidios u dont bs that rare thks
Very Interesting , with these specific loads !
The .357 125gr has typical expected velocities , but with substantially more penetration than typical mainstream 125 jhp .
The .44 180gr has significantly Less velocity than most 180 gr .44 , which is usually a screamer at 1500 plus .
But in this instance , that's a Good Thing , giving ( comparitively ) moderate recoil for good control , and penetration no worse ( no deeper ) that to be expected of .45acp 230 fmj . This makes the Underwood 180 on the very short list of .44 Mag loads somewhat plausible for daily carry while somewhat plausible for large critters .
For PSA if anyone actually deciding between .357 mag and .44mag for first/ only/ primary revolver , the Global Answer is :
.357 is extremely versatile , with very wide range of common loads from everyone . And is optimal for ( human) self defense .
.44 Mag is a specialized gun ( with the vast majority of commonly available Magnum ammunition ) . The potential for versatility is dependent upon this specific load , or just maybe Silvertip .
In general ,the related questions should be .357 Mag vs .44 Special vs .45 Colt , for versitile all around revolver .
For me 44 with 180 is better than 357. 240 gr have more recoil. Yust my opinion. Great video by the way. 👍👍👍👍
Thanks
If it's good enough for Dirty Harry it's good enough for me
Clearly the winner is the 41 mag
No it's the 44 Mag
Both r GREAT .
The best magnum is the biggest magnum you have.😎 Where the hell did Underwood get those numbers from? That's some Hornady level fake number optimism right there. Buffalo Bore>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Underwood.
I know. I mean, Underwood makes some great semi auto loads that beat Buffalo Bore, but for revolvers it's the opposite hence why I have done a few videos of stuff like 10mm VS .357 Mag and others where I use Underwood for the auto and BB for the revolver. I know they use a 6" test barrel for .357 Mag, but that still don't add up as in my experience researching numbers a 4" and 6" only differ by maybe 50 FPS.
44 Mag, you have my attention.
😎
Great video, two of my faverite calibers
Thanks.
I think sam was enjoying this too much! Lol 😆
I would prefer the .357 over the .44. More people can shoot it with less recoil issues. Better platform given this.
I always shoot heavy bullets for caliber except for 45 acp where I shoot cast 200 grain... cause the 45 acp can use a tad bit more velocity
Since the .357 Mag comes in a lighter gun (Manurhin MR73 or m19 S&W) it wins, if the intended use is defense against bad guys. If your imagined antagonists have claws and teeth, the .357 Mag may still win for most people, since few can hit the inside of a barn with a hot .44 Mag under real life conditions. I might even suggest they should go for the 10mm Auto with plenty of fire power, since they will miss a lot.
if thats all u got fireing a longway is a must!
The 686 is a better 357 mag than the M69 is a 44 mag .
The M 69 is a better 44 Special !
Oh bullshit dude 44 always owns 357!
@@romanmorgan1434 I agree , but some people can't handle a full power 44 in a handgun . The #1 reason I got rid of my 357s was the blast & recoil from a 4" with 125gr JHP @ 1,400 fps = the common man stopper load . I would rather have a 44Special +P Or 44 rifle . Less blast , same power . For carry , both are better down loaded . It's not the recoil as much as the blast , the 44 charter Arms has solid recoil with any P+ 44 Specials .
@@danoneill2846 Aww just shoot a 45 ACP it worked in WW2
@@danoneill2846 I bought a cheap Taurus tracker 44 for 400 bucks it shoots just as good as the more expensive ones like Smith or Ruger but they may have a better trigger but you save a lot of money 🤑💰
Love both. Have pistols and lever action rifles for both calibers.
I would imagine it would be relaxing and quiet to shoot some .38's in a lever gun.
@@GunSam if I want to go light, I have a 10/22. ;)
@@tommygatch I just think, at least where I shoot a .38 would be fun in a rifle as the muzzle sound would be reduced and a nice 158 gr bullet doing 800 FPS or so would make a nice sound on whatever it hits.
Excellent video as always, very informative and truly impressive accuracy, especially at 25 yards.
Ever considered making an accurate handgun/revolver shooting video? I know I'd watch it.
Thanks. You will have to explain more what you mean.
@@GunSam Well, you're a good shot and I was hoping you could do a video explaining your techniques so we in the audience can also become good shots.
44 Mag hands down!
Cool video thanks
According to a few books I’ve read from gun shot data the 357 magnum or 357 sig with 125 grain projectile they have the best stop rate by far in real world shooting. One thing of note I don’t think people realize all light for caliber loads were better for EACH caliber for example 9mm 115 grain, 357 125, 40. 155 or 165, 10mm 165, 45acp 180 all worked best
It all boils down to application I reckon
Interesting. I have always found 240 gr .44 Mag easier and nicer to shoot than a 125 gr .357 Mag. Way too much flash, blast, noise, and vibration on the 125 gr. .357. Generally, heavier and slower bullets I find more pleasant to shoot (maybe that's why I also like .45 Colt). Curious what would happen if you shot that .44 with a long barrel (7.5") SA revolver (plow handle) and just let it gently roll in your hand? I expect the difference in results would be more pronounced, and the recoil would be substantially milder.
I have a ruger super Blackhawk with a 7.5” barrel in 44. Recoil is very manageable with it.
The SUPER Blackhawk comes down to wether the square backed trigger gaurd rapps your knuckle. For *Me* it does , and that seems to be the case with about 1/3 of shooters .
The "regular " XR3 or XR3- RED works fine for me with .41 and most Ruger Only .45 with standard wright bullets . Ruger Bisley is great for the heaviest of recoil , but To Me does not point as naturally as XR3 or Colt SAA .
FWIW , the best combination of handling extreme recoil , And natural pointing is the Freedom Arms , but that's a different catagory of $$ .
First of all why use 125 gr. bullets in a .357? I have hunted and reloaded for my .357's for many years. I use 140 grain bullets giving me a compromise between velocity and weight. Three elk have tasted those bullets and dropped where they were shot. I can load those 125 grain bullets to come out of my rifle at 2200 fps pretty easy but it becomes hard to hit the lid of a 5 gal. bucket at fifty yards.
@@russellkeeling9712 "First of all why use 125 gr. bullets in a .357" -- Because those are being heavily pushed as the ultimate defense loadings. If you read the rest of my post, you will see I am fully in agreement with you. I find heavier bullets much easier to shoot accurately out of the .357.
Because the ( full power) 125 JHP as a class ARE the definitive ( human) self defense loading .
But of course , for hunting , or even dual purpose defense against large critters in addition to human felons , there are different parameters . And indeed bullets in the 140- ish weight class can fall in there .
Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bullet weight to power ratio can't be a 357! Great video keep em coming!
Thanks. Yeah I've argued this before. The .357 Mag uses half the material as the .45 auto, but easily is more effective. And .38 Special is the same powder charge as 9mm usually, so cheap shooting all around.
I had 357 Henry big boy and tried ny brother's new 44 mag Henry big boy. I sold my 357 and bought a 44 mag. It has more pow to its power
.357 in my left and .44 in the right and .41 to clean up.
I use both calibers. I tend to run all balls ammo because they're for carry in areas where toothy hungry predators are present. They're always present, they often don't care for a fight with an awkward monkey man who carries lightning ⚡ on his belt. If they choose to engage, they're usually very hungry and don't care. Those need to be dealt with in a fashion exhibiting extreme force, and judicial prejudice to that creature specifically
44 all day every day. Good stuff. But 357 is great on it's own merit.
Thanks.
44 all day 😊👍
I like both but depends on the job at hand but by no means are either a slouch
As long as it explodes a pumpkin, it's doing its job.
Of course. The FBI dropped the pumpkin portion of the ballistic testing once they dropped the 10mm, as it didn't give definitive results anymore. True story. I mean, it's true that it's a story.
You should try some 230 Grain WC Hard Cast Lead Bowling Pin Loads in .38 Special/.357 Magnum!
The .44 mag is just down right NASTY!!! Damn Sam that would put someone down fast.
Yeah, all .44 Mag in the handgun caliber charts shows it all over 90% one shot, don't matter if it's 165 or 240 gr or in between, it's all effective consistently.
Did you say the rated the rounds at 1700 fps? You think they might have tested those rounds out of rifles?
Or, I could possibly heard what you first said wrong. Wouldn't be the first.
From what I have seen from all the videos I watch is Underwood makes fantastic ammo.
I learned something new from you today, i was not aware that a lower weighted round actually has less felt recoil. That is going to be helpful for me for sure.
Keep up the great work.
Without question the 357 magnum is way more versatile. The number of different bullet types and loads is way higher. Plus you can shoot 38 and 38+p and all their assortment of rounds. And although you can shoot 44 spec in the 44 magnum, 44 magnum is much more expensive and harder to find where I live and right now the price point here for both 44 is the same. The 38 is much cheaper than the 357 magnum and that is cheaper than the 44s. I am saving up for a Marlin 357 rifle to hunt with when I can't use tapered rounds.
Underwood rates this ammo from a 6" revolver. That being said, I have tested other ammo rated at 1,700 like Buffalo Bore that shows a 6" revolver rating, and I get at least 1,600 FPS with that, so Underwood needs to fix their ratings.
@@GunSam I concur they need to ensure they are doing their due diligence. I have never personally seen any handgun, from a handgun (other than the super bore like the 460 and S&W 500) have that kind of velocity. Though Underwood and Buffalo Bore are known to run hot and fast.
I don't think I need to ask you to keep up the good work as it appears to me to be just who you are. I will say thank you for your work.
Whichever one you can afford and find ammo for.
Another good and interesting video. Great 25 yard shooting! Take care.
357 For Me
the so-mo laughter on the follow-up. 😆
Great video as always 👍 thank you
Thanks!