Powerful revolver cartridge. First magnum handgun round. Excellent for self-defense and hunting. Can also fire .38 Special.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1934, United States
Parent case: .38 Special
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.357" (9.07 mm)
Case length: 1.29" (32.77 mm)
Overall length: 1.59" (40.39 mm)
Max pressure: 35,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Small Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:16 to 1:18.75
Muzzle velocity: 1180–1650 fps
Muzzle energy: 450–750 ft-lbs
Effective range: 100 yd
Common bullet weights: 110, 125, 140, 158, 180, 200 gr
Primary use: Self Defense, Hunting, Target
Production status: Active
Also known as: .357 Mag · 9x33mmR
History: Developed in 1934 by Elmer Keith, Phil Sharpe, and S&W. Response to increasingly fast cars and body armor during Prohibition. Dirty Harry made .44 Mag famous, but .357 came first.
Notable firearms: S&W Model 27, Colt Python, Ruger GP100, Coonan 1911
Similar cartridges: .38 Special, .44 Magnum