.357 mag hunting loads

[TCBrian]

I am new to this forum, so forgive me if this has already been discussed in detail.
My newest contender barrel is a .357 mag and I am interested in loading data/bullet selection for close range deer hunting.

I was wanting a .357 Max, but I got a great deal on the .357 mag in a 10" octogon barrel.

I know that this cartridge is minimal for deer, I have many much hotter cartridges, up to .375 JDJ. So I am covered for other situations.

I am just interested in using the .357 as very close range gun with the open sights for smaller deer. It seems very nice to carry and I am sure will get the job done at close range with minimal recoil, at least compared to a .44 and especially the .375 JDJ. That thing is a cannon!

Thanks,
Brian

[fyrepowrx]

Brian;

Heavier bullets are recommended..you need some penetration here, and lighter slugs like the 140's / 158's may not always  have the horsepower to plow on through if they over-expand on a bone.

In my 12" Bullberry .357 i am shooting the Sierra 170JHC bullet over 15.0 Grains of H110 , or the Hornady 180 XTP over 12.5grains AA#9..both are max loads but are fine in my gun, but i would recommend reducing at least 10% to start in your guns. I think earlier TC barrels had a longer chamber throats on the 180 you may be able to seat the 180XTP on out in the second crimp groove; my Bullberry has the tighter "match" chamber & that  doesnt work for me. Check the Speer manual & you'll see some data for 180 grain silhouette loads, but dont simply use those powder charge weights & switch bullets, especially at those pressures...all max loads must be worked up as your gun will allow.

i think i still  have copies of quite a few heavy-bullet loads for the .357 that was published by Dick Metcalf in some shooting publication for silhouette fans some time back, let me know if interested & i can copy & fax or mail the info to you.