Handgun Cartridge Detail

Cartridge Specifications for Caliber: .357 Mag
.357 Magnum (.357 Smith & Wesson Magnum)
.357 Magnum
Specifications
Case Type: Rimmed, straight
Introduced: 1934 Made For:Revolver
Cart Len:1.590-in Case Len:1.290-in
Case Dia:0.379-in Bul Dia:0.358-in
Ballistics measured with:
4-inch revolver barrel
Cartridge Variants
WeightVelocityEnergy
From:110 gr1295 ft/sec410 ft-lbs
To180 gr1200 ft/sec675 ft-lbs
Cartridge Used in Database
WeightVelocityEnergy
158 gr1235 ft/sec535 ft-lbs
Rankings for
Cartridge Used in Database
PF: 195130 TKO: 9.980
Description:

Smith & Wesson introduced this cartridge for its heavy-frame revolver. Ammunition was developed by Winchester in cooperation with Smith & Wesson. Using a lengthened and strengthened version of the .38 Special case, the .357 Magnum was rapidly accepted by hunters and law enforcement. At the time of its introduction, it was claimed to easily pierce the body panels of automobiles and crack engine blocks. While it has less power than the .44 Magnum, it compares favorably to the 10mm Norma and .45 ACP, but with better armor penetration. Today factories offer over fifty different loadings in this caliber.