357 max for deer hunting

[maineturkeyman]

Has anyone used a .357 max deer hunting? I'm considering one for my wife.

[steveatsatx]

I have a Contender Super 14 in 357 Max and I use it on hogs. Really knocks 'em down. I only use a 180 pointy bullet (Hornady 3505 or a Speer 2435). I can get a 2" group at 100 yds.

The only gun I use for deer is either a 7-30 Waters or a 7-30 JDJ. To me, the Waters is the only deer gun you ever need.

Both contenders are with me in my blind. Easy and fast to grab either one. Most shots are between 75 - 150 yds.

steveatsatx

[Gregory]

I've taken four deer with a 357 Max 10" Contender.  I use the 180 Hornady XTP.  It hasn't let me down.

[Sverre A.]

What velocity do you have with 180 gr.?
Do the bullets expand? 

[Gregory]

What velocity do you have with 180 gr.?
Do the bullets expand? 

About 1600 fps and never recovered a bullet from a deer, but judging by my tests on gallon milk jugs full of water, yes they expand!