Author Topic: Need some advice .357Magnum or .45 Colt (Read 2274 times)

fastbike · « **on:** January 18, 2007, 05:21:53 AM »

Folks,

Have decided to add a lever gun and SA revolver to my collection. Primarily for target shooting. Do not currently expect to hunt or cowboy with either, but you can never tell. I do my own reloading.

Can't decide between .357 Magnum and .45 Colt. I suspect there is plenty of versatility to either, but what is your advice? Why that choice. Thanks in advance.

Syncerus · « **Reply #1 on:** January 18, 2007, 06:02:48 AM »

The .357 is much cheaper to shoot. If you aren't planning on hunting with the pistol, the .357 is the more practical choice.

John R. · « **Reply #2 on:** January 18, 2007, 08:27:17 AM »

45 Colt, just as cheap if you reload, any power level you want, especially if you decide to hunt with it.

Redhawk45 · « **Reply #3 on:** January 19, 2007, 04:54:45 AM »

45lc gets my vote. If you reload you can make some really light loads for shooting, and some really heavy hitting hunting loads for hunting if you want.

fastbike · « **Reply #4 on:** January 19, 2007, 07:35:50 AM »

Folks, when I read the reloading manuals, I see a lot about the small, weak rim on the .45 Colt case. I'm new to reloading and wonder if this is really a big deal. I know 357 is cheaper, but the difference in components isn't so bad. I don't have any experience shooting the .45 Colt and very little w/ the .357 Magnum. I've shot a fair bit of .40 and .45acp and preferred the recoil of the .45acp. Any of tis comparable to either the .357 magnum or .45 colt?

Thanks again for everyone's thoughts.

Quote from: Redhawk45 on January 19, 2007, 04:54:45 AM

45lc gets my vote. If you reload you can make some really light loads for shooting, and some really heavy hitting hunting loads for hunting if you want.

corbanzo · « **Reply #5 on:** January 19, 2007, 07:50:11 AM »

If I were forced to compare two to two, the .357 would be more like the 40smith, and the .45colt like the .45acp, the first two have more pop, and the latter two have more push. These are hard to compare though, in my experience the .45 colt and .357 mag are much closer (comparative loads) in recoil than the .40sw and the .45acp. The 40sw will really get back on your hand, just how the round is.

If you arent expecting to be doing any hunting with either, I would recommend going with the .357. You can step down to the .38 if you are planning a long day of shooting, or if you want something to go boom, the .357 will also do it for you.

The only reason I see for going to the .45 is if you are going to hunt something bigger than a deer with it, or if you just want something bigger. Other than that... with what you want to do, the .357 gets it.

Catfish · « **Reply #6 on:** January 19, 2007, 09:01:16 AM »

The simple answer is, if you can`t make up your mind you get both.

My wife has accused me of that many time, and sometimes shes been right. I would recomand that you shoot both, then make up your mind. I got a .44 mag. and a .357 mag. at the same time when I got started with centerfire handguns back in the 60`s. They were bith Ruger Blackhawks and I still have both and love both, but the .44 mag. has probibly been fired at least 20 times more ammo than the .357, which has fired several 1,000 rounds. The .44 mag. is another one you might want to fire befor you make up your mind.

fastbike · « **Reply #7 on:** January 19, 2007, 09:08:16 AM »

Wouldn't be the first time I've done that (got both)

Quote from: Catfish on January 19, 2007, 09:01:16 AM

The simple answer is, if you can`t make up your mind you get both. My wife has accused me of that many time, and sometimes shes been right. I would recomand that you shoot both, then make up your mind. I got a .44 mag. and a .357 mag. at the same time when I got started with centerfire handguns back in the 60`s. They were bith Ruger Blackhawks and I still have both and love both, but the .44 mag. has probibly been fired at least 20 times more ammo than the .357, which has fired several 1,000 rounds. The .44 mag. is another one you might want to fire befor you make up your mind.

fastbike · « **Reply #8 on:** January 19, 2007, 09:10:55 AM »

Thanks. I thought they might be close. I definitely had the same feeling as you on the 40s&w and the 45acp. Really didn't care for the 40. I am leaning toward the 357. If I was hunting I'd use the kid's 30-30 H&R.

You folks are great though. Love this forum.

Quote from: corbanzo on January 19, 2007, 07:50:11 AM

If I were forced to compare two to two, the .357 would be more like the 40smith, and the .45colt like the .45acp, the first two have more pop, and the latter two have more push. These are hard to compare though, in my experience the .45 colt and .357 mag are much closer (comparative loads) in recoil than the .40sw and the .45acp. The 40sw will really get back on your hand, just how the round is.

If you arent expecting to be doing any hunting with either, I would recommend going with the .357. You can step down to the .38 if you are planning a long day of shooting, or if you want something to go boom, the .357 will also do it for you.

The only reason I see for going to the .45 is if you are going to hunt something bigger than a deer with it, or if you just want something bigger. Other than that... with what you want to do, the .357 gets it.

Lloyd Smale · « **Reply #9 on:** January 19, 2007, 11:23:28 AM »

to me the only good thing about a 357 is you can shoot .38s if your at all intersted in hunting eventualy. Buy a .44 mag or 45 colt

fastbike · « **Reply #10 on:** January 19, 2007, 02:40:58 PM »

So Lloyd, what about this 45 colt "weak rim" stuff in some reloading manuals? Any real deal?

Thanks

Quote from: Lloyd Smale on January 19, 2007, 11:23:28 AM

to me the only good thing about a 357 is you can shoot .38s if your at all intersted in hunting eventualy. Buy a .44 mag or 45 colt

fastbike · « **Reply #11 on:** January 20, 2007, 02:29:07 PM »

Folks,

Thanks for all the opinions. Decided to go w/ the 45 colt. Figure I can always get another gun if I don't like the 45.

Lloyd Smale · « **Reply #12 on:** January 20, 2007, 02:31:08 PM »

if you can find some of those old ballon head cases hold on to them there pretty rare! 45 brass is every bit as strong as 44 mag brass

Quote from: fastbike on January 19, 2007, 02:40:58 PM

So Lloyd, what about this 45 colt "weak rim" stuff in some reloading manuals? Any real deal?

Thanks

Quote from: Lloyd Smale on January 19, 2007, 11:23:28 AM
to me the only good thing about a 357 is you can shoot .38s if your at all intersted in hunting eventualy. Buy a .44 mag or 45 colt

jd45 · « **Reply #13 on:** January 23, 2007, 03:50:17 PM »

Fastbike, you won't be sorry you chose the .45 Colt..........the loading versatility is great, even if you don't load yourself, there's enough comm out there to choose from for any application........as the saying goes, "If you're gonna make a hole, make it a BIG one", jd45

fastbike · « **Reply #14 on:** January 24, 2007, 06:28:37 AM »

I'm sure you're right. I got a great deal on a new Uberti 1873 Cattleman and I've already picked up a fair bit of brass. Also have bullets on the way. Haven't had a chance to get to my local range yet, but I hoping to get some time Thursday night. BTW, this is also my first revolver. Gotta love the simplicity and elegance of the design. Next item will be choosing a levergun in .45 Colt.

Quote from: jd45 on January 23, 2007, 03:50:17 PM

Fastbike, you won't be sorry you chose the .45 Colt..........the loading versatility is great, even if you don't load yourself, there's enough comm out there to choose from for any application........as the saying goes, "If you're gonna make a hole, make it a BIG one", jd45

John R. · « **Reply #15 on:** January 25, 2007, 06:05:38 AM »

Fastbike, make sure you don't get any Ruger only loads in that Uberti, as it will definitly be unpleasant to you and your gun.

jd45 · « **Reply #16 on:** January 25, 2007, 02:22:45 PM »

fastbike, please allow me to make a recommendation as to a complimentary levergun. I recently bought a Uberti Sporting rifle, imported by American Arms. The overall workmanship was outstanding, the receiver case-hardened colors magnificent, the checkered pistolgrip stock & forearm beautiful, AND it's accurate! I put a Marble's tang rear & a globe front sight system on it & it's a real tackdriver.......it's .45 Colt caliber, & I'd take it deer hunting anytime. Just my 2 cents, jd45

fastbike · « **Reply #17 on:** January 25, 2007, 02:44:47 PM »

Yep, I'm current on that issue. All my reloading manuals are very clear on that topic. The shop where I bought the gun was equally emphatic.

Quote from: John R. on January 25, 2007, 06:05:38 AM

Fastbike, make sure you don't get any Ruger only loads in that Uberti, as it will definitly be unpleasant to you and your gun.

fastbike · « **Reply #18 on:** January 25, 2007, 02:49:49 PM »

jd45, do you have a web site for this? I'm having trouble finding anything like it. Uberti only shows up to an 1865 replica. I can find Western American Arms, but they are all Lightning replicas.

Quote from: jd45 on January 25, 2007, 02:22:45 PM

fastbike, please allow me to make a recommendation as to a complimentary levergun. I recently bought a Uberti Sporting rifle, imported by American Arms. The overall workmanship was outstanding, the receiver case-hardened colors magnificent, the checkered pistolgrip stock & forearm beautiful, AND it's accurate! I put a Marble's tang rear & a globe front sight system on it & it's a real tackdriver.......it's .45 Colt caliber, & I'd take it deer hunting anytime. Just my 2 cents, jd45

jd45 · « **Reply #19 on:** January 25, 2007, 05:23:00 PM »

fastbike, I bought this rifle at G.A.T. Guns in Dundee, Illinois, (NW of Chicago). 847-428-4867. I'd call them to find out any info for American Arms. Good Luck, jd45

45454 · « **Reply #20 on:** January 30, 2007, 03:42:39 PM »

Quote from: fastbike on January 19, 2007, 02:40:58 PM

So Lloyd, what about this 45 colt "weak rim" stuff in some reloading manuals? Any real deal?

Thanks

Quote from: Lloyd Smale on January 19, 2007, 11:23:28 AM
to me the only good thing about a 357 is you can shoot .38s if your at all intersted in hunting eventualy. Buy a .44 mag or 45 colt

Fastbike,
OK for the reason for the "weak 45 Colt rims"; They will tear off,if using unlubed cases in a regular (not carbide) dies.
Suggest wholeheartedly, that you buy those carbide dies.Then, you won't have to lube those cases.
Enjoy guy !

fastbike · « **Reply #21 on:** February 01, 2007, 02:53:20 AM »

That's about what I thought. In my usual "go big or stay home" method, I've already got the carbide dies and have accumulated about 800 new cases through an Ebay frenzy.

I've had a chance to shoot the Uberti with some Winchester Cowboy loads. Very manageable, but I'm guessing these loads are a bit "light".

Advice to the new Uberti shooters: Locktight the cylinder pin screw BEFORE you lose the spring.

[/quote]

Fastbike,
OK for the reason for the "weak 45 Colt rims"; They will tear off,if using unlubed cases in a regular (not carbide) dies.
Suggest wholeheartedly, that you buy those carbide dies.Then, you won't have to lube those cases.
Enjoy guy !
[/quote]

georgeld · « **Reply #22 on:** February 01, 2007, 08:34:35 PM »

Something I don't understand here.

"go big, or stay home".

Then you get a Uberti that's only capable of half power loads.

makes sense don't it?

Want something big, go Ruger and don't look back, that's what I did.

Tell you what, in a Ruger .45 colt there ain't no such thing as "PUSH from recoil!!"

Wish you well, think about it is all I'm meanin here.

Had an old retired Sheriff tell me a few yrs ago: "IF you can't do it with a Ruger .45 Colt, better
get a rifle".

Some of the loads I've tested I can sure see what he's talking about there.

Fully equal to any .44mag.

George

fastbike · « **Reply #23 on:** February 02, 2007, 02:43:05 AM »

Go big as in jump in and buy dies, bullets, powder and a lot of brass before I had even shot the gun.

You really misunderstood a light hearted comment. Since you seem to be serious and apparently have some issues (about size), I'll explain more. The Uberti runs the same loads as any Colt. I got it to shoot for fun.

It is fun. I have a number of rifles to go with it and another pistol when I feel the need for some protection, which is almost never.

Get over it.

Quote from: georgeld on February 01, 2007, 08:34:35 PM

Something I don't understand here.

"go big, or stay home".

Then you get a Uberti that's only capable of half power loads.

makes sense don't it?

Want something big, go Ruger and don't look back, that's what I did.

Tell you what, in a Ruger .45 colt there ain't no such thing as "PUSH from recoil!!"

Wish you well, think about it is all I'm meanin here.

Had an old retired Sheriff tell me a few yrs ago: "IF you can't do it with a Ruger .45 Colt, better
get a rifle".

Some of the loads I've tested I can sure see what he's talking about there.

Fully equal to any .44mag.

George

45454 · « **Reply #24 on:** February 02, 2007, 11:24:53 AM »

Quote from: georgeld on February 01, 2007, 08:34:35 PM

Something I don't understand here.

"go big, or stay home".

Then you get a Uberti that's only capable of half power loads.

makes sense don't it?

Want something big, go Ruger and don't look back, that's what I did.

Tell you what, in a Ruger .45 colt there ain't no such thing as "PUSH from recoil!!"

Wish you well, think about it is all I'm meanin here.

Had an old retired Sheriff tell me a few yrs ago: "IF you can't do it with a Ruger .45 Colt, better
get a rifle".

Some of the loads I've tested I can sure see what he's talking about there.

Fully equal to any .44mag.

George

Hello Georgeld

!
These 1873's are of the old blackpowder design.
That does mean,no "Ruger only loads".
Yes, I also have a 45 Colt Ruger BH.A F.A. 454 Casull.
And yes, out of mine with a 4 3/4" barrel,900 FPS(+). I won't go too much higher than 1000 FPS.
A member of the Ruger forums knows what he's talking about.He's carried for over 40 years.
We've shot together.When he was stationed in Alaska, didn't tell me which year(s),he's taken 2 bears with a 45 Colt. I'd presume in the
50's/60's or maybe early 70's.
He said, when I get up to 900 FPS, it 's serious hunting loads.The secret,if there's one, is to use 255gr SWC's. The SWC's,will give much better penetration than with jacketed.
He has retired last year.And got out of Kommiefornia.
I really like my Uberti.
You take care !!
See ya !

bearbeater · « **Reply #25 on:** February 19, 2007, 07:26:54 AM »

After reading this post it has helped me make up my mind and I chose a vaquaro short barrel in 357. all of my stuff is set up for 357. and after shooting it. I decided to get another in 45lc. I hate it when I do that!!!!!!!!!!!!
BB