.357 Mag Prices
| PRODUCT | DEALER | QUANTITY | PRICE | SHIPPING | TOTAL PRICE | PRICE/RD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG Ammo | 1000 | $499.00 | $0.00 | $499.00 |
$0.50
1000 Rounds
|
|
| SG Ammo | 1000 | $519.00 | $0.00 | $519.00 |
$0.52
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 500 | $255.85 | $17.99 | $273.84 |
$0.55
500 Rounds
|
|
| SG Ammo | 1000 | $549.80 | $0.00 | $549.80 |
$0.55
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $540.12 | $22.99 | $563.11 |
$0.56
1000 Rounds
|
|
| BulkAmmo.com | 1000 | $659.00 | $22.91 | $681.91 |
$0.68
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $751.88 | $22.99 | $774.87 |
$0.77
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $761.29 | $22.99 | $784.28 |
$0.78
1000 Rounds
|
.357 Mag Overview
The .357 Magnum stands as a benchmark for handgun power and versatility. Introduced in 1935, it was the first magnum handgun cartridge and set new standards for handgun performance. The cartridge represents a perfect balance of power, accuracy, and practical shootability, while offering the versatility of also firing .38 Special ammunition.
This cartridge earned its reputation through decades of proven performance in law enforcement, hunting, and self-defense. While modern semi-automatics have largely replaced revolvers in police service, the .357 Magnum maintains its position as an excellent choice for sporting purposes and personal protection. Its effectiveness is further enhanced when used in carbines, where it offers excellent ballistics with manageable recoil.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Excellent terminal performance
- Can fire .38 Special ammunition
- Good accuracy potential
- Proven track record
- Effective in both revolvers and carbines
Cons
- Significant recoil in lighter revolvers
- Limited capacity compared to semi-autos
- More expensive than .38 Special
- Slower to reload than semi-autos
- Full-power loads can be difficult to master
.357 Mag Ballistics
The .357 Magnum typically achieves velocities between 1,200-1,500 fps from revolvers and up to 1,800 fps from carbine-length barrels, with standard 125-158 grain bullets. Use our trajectory calculator to customize ballistic data for whatever load you are using.
Similar Calibers Compared
| Caliber | Typical Bullet Weight | Muzzle Velocity | Muzzle Energy | Energy at 50 yds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .357 Magnum | 125gr | 1450 fps | 583 ft-lbs | 475 ft-lbs |
| .38 Special | 158gr | 755 fps | 200 ft-lbs | 175 ft-lbs |
| 9mm Luger | 124gr | 1150 fps | 364 ft-lbs | 315 ft-lbs |
| .44 Magnum | 240gr | 1450 fps | 1124 ft-lbs | 890 ft-lbs |
What .357 Mag Does Best
Personal Defense
The .357 Magnum excels in defensive applications due to its proven terminal performance and reliability. The ability to practice with .38 Special ammunition allows shooters to master their revolvers without the magnum's full recoil, while maintaining point of impact. When loaded with modern defensive ammunition, it offers excellent stopping power while remaining controllable in proper defensive revolvers.
Hunting
For hunting medium game within reasonable ranges, the .357 Magnum proves highly effective, particularly from carbine-length barrels. The cartridge generates sufficient energy for deer-sized game while offering excellent accuracy. The flat trajectory and good penetration with proper bullets make it particularly suitable for woodland hunting where ranges are typically moderate.
Target/Competition
In competitive shooting, the .357 Magnum offers versatility through its ability to fire both magnum and .38 Special loads. This flexibility allows competitors to tailor their ammunition choice to the specific requirements of different events. The cartridge's inherent accuracy and manageable recoil with proper loads make it popular in both action and precision shooting sports.
Types of Projectiles
Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
- Self-defense and hunting ammunition with controlled expansion
Soft Point (SP)
- Traditional hunting loads with reliable penetration
Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
- Range and practice ammunition
Cast Lead
- Economical practice loads and hunting options
Common .357 Mag Bullet Weights
125 grain
- High velocity defensive and hunting loads with lighter recoil
158 grain
- Traditional weight offering good balance of power and control
180 grain
- Heavy bullets for maximum penetration and hunting use