.357 Magnum "Sweet Spot?"

[jetfire]

Assuming this thread is about self defense against humans and not sporting purposes, in what scenarios does a ".357 -P" solve the problem whereas a .38Spl+P does not -- assuming a good bullet is used in either case?

Your average .38 +P load is pushing 900-1000 FPS, whereas the .357 -P is running around 1100-1200 FPS.

[Robinson]

Your average .38 +P load is pushing 900-1000 FPS, whereas the .357 -P is running around 1100-1200 FPS.

Yes, I get that and am not disputing the difference in power between the two -- but that doesn't really answer my question. I am asking for what practical defensive use is the magnum better than the .38Spl+P ? Is the penetration of the .38Spl+P inadequate? Does it suffer from inadequate expansion? When I carry a revolver it is a 4" barrel gun loaded with the FBI round. This thread is somewhat based on an opinion that the .38Spl+P is not quite enough -- and I am trying to understand the reasoning.

[jetfire]

Yes, I get that and am not disputing the difference in power between the two -- but that doesn't really answer my question. I am asking for what practical defensive use is the magnum better than the .38Spl+P ? Is the penetration of the .38Spl+P inadequate? Does it suffer from inadequate expansion? When I carry a revolver it is a 4" barrel gun loaded with the FBI round. This thread is somewhat based on an opinion that the .38Spl+P is not quite enough -- and I am trying to understand the reasoning.

That I can't really answer, I carry .38 +Ps in my revolvers, not magnums. Some people want more, but not quite that much more.

[Velo Dog]

Even from 4" barreled revolvers, the 38 Special often falls short of penetration and expansion expectations, especially when barriers are involved.
http://winchesterle.com/Products/han...es/X38SPD.aspx
http://winchesterle.com/Products/han...ges/ra38b.aspx
http://winchesterle.com/Products/han...RA38110HP.aspx

[Velo Dog]

Follow link, then click on TERMINAL BALLISTICS

http://winchesterle.com/Products/han.../USA38JHP.aspx
http://winchesterle.com/Products/han...s/X38S7PH.aspx

[314159]

Caleb has my logic just right. The new .38+p loads are adequate (just barely usually, or sometimes not). When adequate they are just a little over 12 inches penetration, the FBI says 12 to 15 inches is best. So, I've got this big L or N frame in my hand, why not go for something a little more capable to get closer to 15 inches and with greater tolerance to heavy clothing, etc. However, I don't want to go all Dirty Harry (yes, I know) with recoil and degraded controllability either. Thus, my search for a .357-P.
BTW, shot the Rem 125 Golden Saber in a 2.5 inch/28 ounce Night Guard yesterday. Once again, a pleasant load to shoot with one caveat: muzzle flash. Out of the 2.5 barrel it was pretty bright indeed, not blinding but definitely noteworthy. My 4 inch 627 was a good bit better but the flash out of the barrel gap alone was not trivial.

[jetfire]

Caleb has my logic just right. The new .38+p loads are adequate (just barely usually, or sometimes not). When adequate they are just a little over 12 inches penetration, the FBI says 12 to 15 inches is best. So, I've got this big L or N frame in my hand, why not go for something a little more capable to get closer to 15 inches and with greater tolerance to heavy clothing, etc. However, I don't want to go all Dirty Harry (yes, I know) with recoil and degraded controllability either. Thus, my search for a .357-P.
BTW, shot the Rem 125 Golden Saber in a 2.5 inch/28 ounce Night Guard yesterday. Once again, a pleasant load to shoot with one caveat: muzzle flash. Out of the 2.5 barrel it was pretty bright indeed, not blinding but definitely noteworthy. My 4 inch 627 was a good bit better but the flash out of the barrel gap alone was not trivial.

I remember doing a night shoot with my SP101 once with that load. Having a flashbang attached to your gun is fun, but I don't think I'd want to light one off in my loft.

[Jeep]

A loud bang and a huge flash at night time can help to terminate fights rapidly. The downside is you might not be able to see enough for a second shot if it is necessary.

[jetfire]

A loud bang and a huge flash at night time can help to terminate fights rapidly. The downside is you might not be able to see enough for a second shot if it is necessary.

Having done a lot of night shooting with revolvers, I would say that the effect of the flash and bang if you're behind the gun is considerably over-stated. It's certainly noticeable, but if you're prepared for it, it's definitely going to affect the other guy a lot more.

[Hizzie]

When I carried the 681PC on duty I ran Federal 357B. My coworkers would bitch about the flash/blast during no light quals but I never had any issues.