Few handgun rounds command as much respect as the .357 Magnum. This mighty cartridge packs serious stopping power that most shooters can still handle with practice. People use it for protecting their homes, hunting small game, and even shooting competitions because it works great for all these jobs.

Picking the right .357 Magnum revolver really matters for your success. These guns come in many different sizes and weights to fit what you need. Some models work better for carrying hidden, others defend your home better, and certain ones shine in hunting or competition. Your perfect match depends on how you plan to use it and how you like to shoot.

The best revolvers strike a perfect balance between power and comfort when you fire them. Too much recoil makes shooting less fun and hurts accuracy over time. This guide will show you exactly what to look for when choosing a .357 Magnum that fits both your shooting needs and what you can afford to spend.

What to Consider Before Buying a .357 Magnum Revolver

Frame Size

The frame size of your revolver affects everything from weight to recoil management. Small frames work best for concealed carry but may punish your hand with full-power loads. Medium frames strike a nice balance between shootability and portability. Large frames tame recoil effectively but add bulk and weight that makes carrying them all day challenging.

Your physical size and strength should guide your choice. Smaller-framed shooters might prefer medium-sized revolvers that balance recoil control with manageable weight. Larger shooters can handle the bigger models more comfortably.

Barrel Length

Barrel length changes how your revolver performs and carries. Shorter barrels (2-3 inches) make concealment easier but sacrifice velocity and sight radius. This affects both accuracy and stopping power. Mid-length barrels (4-5 inches) offer better ballistic performance while remaining reasonably portable. Longer barrels (6+ inches) maximize velocity and accuracy but become awkward to carry concealed.

The sweet spot for many shooters falls around 4 inches. This length delivers good velocity and accuracy without becoming too unwieldy for practical use.

Capacity

Most .357 Magnum revolvers come with 6 or 7 shots in the cylinder. A few special models give you 8 rounds before needing a reload. Those extra bullets could make a real difference in a self-defense situation. Competition shooters also like having more rounds since they spend less time reloading during matches. You should think about whether carrying that heavier cylinder is worth having the extra firepower.

A bigger cylinder with more rounds takes up more space on your hip or in your holster. This matters a lot if you plan to carry your revolver every day under your clothes. The extra weight and bulk might become noticeable after several hours of wear.

Price Range

You'll find .357 Magnum revolvers at many different price points to fit various budgets. The Taurus Tracker starts at about $400 for shooters watching their spending. Moving up, Ruger and Smith & Wesson offer solid options between $600 and $900. The fancy Colt Python and special Performance Center models cost between $1,200 and $1,500. At the very top end, the European-made Manurhin MR73 sells for over $3,500.

Choose a revolver that matches what you'll actually do with it, not just what looks cool. A good mid-range revolver from a trusted company will serve you well for many years with basic maintenance. Many shooters find these guns offer the best balance of quality and value for everyday use and practice.

Reviews of the Best .357 Magnum Revolvers

Smith & Wesson Model 627 Pro Series

The Smith & Wesson Model 627 Pro Series showcases what happens when a classic design meets modern engineering. Built on Smith's large N-frame, this stainless steel revolver holds a remarkable 8 rounds of .357 Magnum ammunition. This gives you a significant capacity advantage over standard six-shooters.

The Pro Series designation means this revolver receives special attention from Smith & Wesson's Performance Center. Each gun features hand-fitting and tuning that results in a smoother action and better trigger pull than production-line models. The chamfered charge holes and cut for moon clips showcase the competition-ready nature of this revolver.

The moon clip feature truly sets the Model 627 apart from traditional revolvers. These flat steel clips hold all eight rounds in perfect alignment for lightning-fast reloads. Empty the cylinder, press the ejector rod, and all eight cases come out at once. Just drop in a fresh moon clip and you're back in action. This system proves especially valuable in competition shooting where seconds count. 

At the range, the N-frame's substantial heft absorbs recoil effectively with even the hottest loads. First-time shooters often comment on how manageable the gun feels despite its magnum designation. The extended grip provides excellent control during rapid firing sequences.

Price: $1,199

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 4 inches
• Overall length: 9.75 inches
• Weight: 41.4 oz
• Capacity: 8 rounds

Features

• Custom barrel with recessed precision crown
• Chamfered charge holes
• Cylinder cut for moon clips
• Bossed mainspring

Pros

• High capacity of 8 rounds
• Excellent trigger feel
• Cut for moon clips, facilitating faster reloading

Cons

• Large frame size may feel bulky for some users
• Premium pricing

Colt Python

The Colt Python holds legendary status among revolver enthusiasts, and its 2020 reintroduction caused waves of excitement. This modern Python retains the iconic looks of the original while incorporating updated engineering to enhance durability and performance. The high-polish stainless steel finish and ventilated rib create an unmistakable profile that turns heads at any range.

From the moment you grip the Python, you notice the excellent balance and point-ability. The double-action trigger pull feels smooth throughout its travel, while the single-action break offers competition-level crispness. Multiple barrel length options let you select the perfect configuration for your intended use.

Police officers and serious collectors prized the original Python for decades before production ended in 2005. The new model improves on this legacy with stronger internal parts and better machining processes. Colt offers this revolver in numerous barrel configurations to suit different needs. Target shooters appreciate the longer 6-inch and 8-inch models for their stability. 

Defensive users might prefer the more compact 2.5-inch or 4.25-inch versions. Each Python comes with either walnut target grips or Hogue OverMolded rubber grips based on the model. This attention to detail extends throughout the entire gun. 

The Python's weight helps tame the stout recoil of .357 Magnum loads, making follow-up shots quicker and more precise. Though priced at a premium, the combination of historical significance, superior craftsmanship, and exceptional shooting characteristics justifies the investment for serious revolver enthusiasts.

Price: $1,404

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel lengths available: 2.5" to 8"
• Overall length: 8" to 13.5"
• Weight: 39 oz to 51 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features

• Fully adjustable rear sight
• Vent-rib barrel
• Available in high-polish stainless steel

Pros

• Iconic design with improved mechanics
• Well-balanced for accurate shooting
• Multiple barrel configurations available

Cons

• High price point
• Some reports of inconsistent trigger quality from unit to unit

Ruger GP100

The Ruger GP100 has earned a reputation as one of the toughest .357 Magnum revolvers ever made. Its overbuilt construction features a solid frame with no sideplate, creating exceptional durability even under punishing use with full-power magnum loads. This revolver can take abuse that would damage lesser guns.

Available in various barrel lengths and finishes, the GP100 offers options for nearly any application. The standard model features a six-round capacity, though seven-round variants exist. The triple-locking cylinder provides extra security and perfect alignment during firing.

The GP100 shines at the range with its excellent recoil management system. Hogue rubber grips come standard on most models and tame the kick of full-power loads. These cushioned grips wrap around the backstrap for complete hand coverage. Many shooters appreciate the user-replaceable grip panels that allow for customization. 

The balance of the revolver feels natural in hand, especially in the 4.2-inch barrel configuration. Even after hundreds of magnum rounds, your hand won't feel beaten up. This comfort factor makes the GP100 an excellent choice for both beginners experiencing magnum power and veterans who shoot regularly.

While not as refined as some competitors, the GP100 delivers practical performance at a more accessible price point. The transfer bar safety system adds a layer of security without complicating operation. For shooters seeking a no-nonsense magnum revolver that will last for generations, the GP100 makes an excellent choice.

Price: $659

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 2.5" – 6"
• Overall length: 8" – 11.5"
• Weight: 36 oz – 43.5 oz
• Capacity: 6 or 7 rounds

Features

• Triple-locking cylinder
• Transfer bar safety
• Available in blued and stainless steel finishes

Pros

• Robust construction, ideal for heavy use
• Reasonably priced within its category
• Versatile with different barrel lengths

Cons

• Heavier and bulkier compared to some modern revolvers

Manurhin MR73

The Manurhin MR73 represents the pinnacle of European revolver craftsmanship. Developed for the French special forces GIGN, this revolver undergoes extensive hand-fitting and testing to create what many consider the finest combat revolver ever made. Each MR73 must pass a 5,000-round endurance test before leaving the factory.

The exceptional trigger surpasses even custom-tuned American revolvers, with a smooth, consistent double-action pull and crisp single-action break. The target adjustable trigger allows for personalization, letting shooters dial in their preferred pull weight. The adjustable target sights provide excellent sight picture for precision shooting.

The MR73's construction truly stands out from other revolvers. Each pistol undergoes special heat treatment that creates a frame with unmatched strength and exceptional longevity under harsh conditions. French gunsmiths hand-fit every component with incredible precision. GIGN special forces officers still carry these revolvers on active duty despite having access to more modern firearms. Their continued use in elite units proves these revolvers perform flawlessly in real-world combat situations.

These revolvers command a premium price, but deliver unmatched durability and accuracy. The MR73 can withstand tens of thousands of full-power magnum rounds without significant parts wear, something few other revolvers can claim. For those who demand the absolute best and can afford the investment, the Manurhin MR73 stands in a class of its own.

Price: $3,599

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 5.25 inches
• Overall length: 10.39 inches
• Weight: 37 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features

• Adjustable target sights
• Ergonomic target grips
• Target adjustable trigger

Pros

• Exceptional accuracy and trigger response
• Built for intensive use with unparalleled durability

Cons

• Very high cost makes it less accessible to average buyers

Kimber K6s

The Kimber K6s brought innovation to the revolver market with its sleek, modern design focused on concealed carry. This small-frame revolver stands out with its unique flat-sided cylinder that reduces bulk and snag points. Despite its compact dimensions, the K6s maintains a six-round capacity when many similar-sized competitors only hold five.

Available in both hammerless (DAO) and exposed hammer (DASA) variants, the K6s offers options for different carry preferences. The double-action trigger ranks among the best in its class, with a smooth pull that helps maintain accuracy during rapid fire. The match-grade components contribute to the revolver's impressive accuracy potential.

The K6s shines at the shooting range as a serious self-defense option. Its sights line up quickly and stay on target during fast shots. The smallest 2-inch barrel model hides easily under a t-shirt without showing. You can pick longer barrels for better accuracy and bullet speed if you prefer. 

Even with hot magnum loads, the kick stays controllable for most shooters. This makes practice more fun and builds skill faster. For everyday carry, the K6s hit the sweet spot between small size and serious firepower. Many shooters report that the smooth edges and snag-free design make drawing from concealment fast and consistent. 

The K6s weighs just 23 ounces in its lightest configuration, making it comfortable for all-day carry. Its premium construction and attention to detail justify the higher price compared to other small-frame revolvers. The K6s has earned its reputation as one of the most pocketable .357 Magnum revolvers on the market today.

Price: $807

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 2" – 4"
• Overall length: 6.62" – 8.62"
• Weight: 23 oz – 29 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features

• Match-grade trigger
• Available in both hammerless and hammered versions
• Compact design with a flat-sided cylinder

Pros

• Extremely well-suited for concealed carry due to its slim profile
• Excellent build quality and durability
• Good choice of grip materials and styles

Cons

• Limited aftermarket support compared to other models

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus

The 686 Plus takes S&W's famous .357 Magnum design to the next level. This stainless steel revolver holds seven rounds instead of the usual six in its L-frame design. S&W combined old-school looks with modern engineering to create a gun that works great for almost any shooter.

You can aim precisely thanks to the adjustable rear sight and red front blade. The double-action trigger feels smooth when you pull it all the way back. For single-action shooting, just cock the hammer and enjoy the crisp break. S&W offers several barrel lengths so you can pick one for carrying, home defense, or even competition shooting.

Many gun experts use the 686 Plus as the standard for judging other revolvers. It handles powerful .357 Magnum and softer .38 Special ammo equally well. The stainless steel body fights off rust and stands up to years of heavy use without problems.

Perfect balance makes this revolver feel natural in your hand. The weight distribution helps you get on target fast and stay there during long shooting sessions. For many shooters, the 686 Plus hits the sweet spot between capacity, handling, and shooting fun in a medium-sized revolver.

Price: $839

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 2.5" – 7"
• Overall length: 7.5" – 12.3"
• Weight: 34.5 oz – 48.2 oz
• Capacity: 7 rounds

Features

• Fully adjustable rear sight
• Red blade ramped front sight
• L-Frame medium size

Pros

• Adds an extra round, increasing capacity to 7
• Balanced and robust design suitable for various uses
• Outstanding trigger quality

Cons

• Price increases significantly for the Plus model over the standard 6-shot version

Taurus Tracker 627

The Taurus Tracker 627 proves that quality .357 Magnum revolvers don't need to break the bank. This Brazilian-made revolver delivers impressive performance and features at roughly half the price of comparable American-made competitors. The stainless steel construction provides durability and corrosion resistance for years of service.

A standout feature on the Tracker 627 is the factory-ported barrel, which reduces felt recoil and muzzle rise. This makes shooting full-power magnum loads more comfortable, especially during extended range sessions. The fully adjustable rear sight allows precise zeroing with different loads and shooting distances.

Field testing confirms the Tracker's solid performance under real-world conditions. Many owners report putting thousands of rounds through these revolvers without major issues. The soft rubber grips stay comfortable even during day-long range sessions. This model accepts both traditional .357 Magnum loads and softer-shooting .38 Special ammunition. 

With a seven-round capacity, the Tracker 627 matches more expensive revolvers in the rounds-on-board department. The rubber grips absorb recoil effectively while providing a secure hold. For shooters on a budget who still want a feature-rich .357 Magnum revolver, the Taurus Tracker 627 offers exceptional value.

Price: $407

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 4"
• Overall length: 8.75"
• Weight: 35 oz
• Capacity: 7 rounds

Features

• Ported barrel reduces recoil
• Transfer bar safety
• Fully adjustable rear sight

Pros

• Very affordable compared to other models
• Features like ported barrel and adjustable sight usually found in higher-priced revolvers
• Good balance between performance and cost

Cons

• Some users report issues with fit and finish not matching higher-end models

Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 19 Carry Comp

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 19 Carry Comp modernizes the classic Model 19 revolver for today's concealed carry needs. Built on Smith's K-frame, this revolver balances size and power perfectly for defensive use. The Performance Center tuning provides a smoother action and better trigger pull than standard production models.

The standout feature is the PowerPort vented barrel, which reduces muzzle rise and felt recoil significantly. This allows for faster follow-up shots in defensive situations. The tritium front night sight aids in low-light target acquisition which is a crucial factor for self-defense scenarios.

On the range, this revolver truly proves its worth through consistent performance. The Model 19 Carry Comp cycles smoothly through a full cylinder of magnum rounds with minimal discomfort. Its heritage traces back to the legendary Combat Magnum, but adds modern touches for today's defensive situations. Shooters with smaller hands will appreciate the well-proportioned K-frame design. 

Smith & Wesson includes both custom wood "boot-style" grips and synthetic grips, letting shooters choose based on their preferences. The 3-inch barrel length strikes an ideal balance between concealability and ballistic performance. For those seeking a premium carry revolver with competition-grade features, the Model 19 Carry Comp delivers exceptional performance.

Price: $1,289

Specs

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Barrel length: 3"
• Overall length: 8"
• Weight: 34.5 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features

• Performance Center tuned action
• PowerPort vented barrel
• Tritium front night sight

Pros

• Enhanced trigger and action for smoother shooting
• Ported barrel for reduced recoil and muzzle rise 
• Compact size ideal for concealed carry

Cons

• Higher price point due to Performance Center customization
• Ported barrel can produce larger muzzle flash, potentially a drawback in low-light situations

.357 Magnum Ammunition

The .357 Magnum cartridge emerged in 1934 as a collaboration between Smith & Wesson and Winchester. It represented a significant advancement over the .38 Special, which lacked sufficient stopping power for law enforcement needs. The new cartridge used the same diameter bullet but added case length and substantially more powder.

This powerful round became the gold standard for police service revolvers for decades. The .357 Magnum achieved this status through its impressive ballistic performance. A typical load launches a 125-grain bullet at around 1,450 feet per second from a 4-inch barrel. This creates nearly twice the energy of standard .38 Special loads.

Modern .357 Magnum ammunition comes in various configurations. Full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds work well for target practice with controlled penetration. Jacketed hollow points (JHP) expand on impact, creating larger wound channels for defensive use. Soft point ammunition splits the difference, offering good penetration with moderate expansion for hunting applications.

One significant advantage of .357 Magnum revolvers comes from their ability to also fire .38 Special ammunition. This versatility let's shooters practice with milder, less expensive .38 Special rounds while carrying more powerful .357 Magnum loads for defense. This flexibility makes these revolvers practical for different scenarios without changing firearms.

Frame Size Considerations

Small Frame Revolvers

Small frame .357 Magnum revolvers prioritize concealability and portability. These compact guns typically weigh between 12 and 32 ounces unloaded. Models like the Kimber K6s and Smith & Wesson J-frames fall into this category.

The primary advantage of small frames comes from their ease of concealment. Their reduced dimensions make them disappear under clothing more readily than larger revolvers. The lighter weight also reduces carrying fatigue during all-day wear.

However, these advantages come with significant trade-offs. Small frame revolvers transmit much more felt recoil to the shooter with full-power .357 Magnum loads. This can make practice painful and follow-up shots difficult. Most experts recommend using lighter .38 Special loads for regular practice in these guns.

Small frames also tend to have shorter barrels (usually 2-3 inches), which reduces velocity and energy. The compact grips can prove challenging for shooters with larger hands. For concealed carry where size and weight matter most, small frames excel – but they demand more shooter commitment to master.

Medium Frame Revolvers

Medium frame revolvers like the Smith & Wesson 686, Ruger GP100, and Colt Python offer an excellent balance between shoot-ability and practicality. These revolvers typically weigh between 35 and 45 ounces unloaded.

The additional weight and size provide several advantages over small frame revolvers. Medium frames absorb recoil more effectively, making them more comfortable with full-power loads. The larger grips accommodate a wider range of hand sizes, improving control and reducing fatigue during extended sessions.

Most medium frames feature 4-inch barrels, which extract more velocity and energy from .357 Magnum ammunition. This makes them more effective for both defensive use and hunting. The longer sight radius also improves practical accuracy for most shooters.

These revolvers can still be concealed with appropriate holsters and clothing choices. Many consider medium frames the ideal compromise for shooters who want one revolver that handles multiple roles from personal defense to recreational shooting.

Large Frame Revolvers

Large frame .357 Magnum revolvers like the Smith & Wesson Model 627 and Ruger Redhawk prioritize performance and shooting comfort over portability. These substantial revolvers typically weigh between 45 and 60 ounces unloaded.

The main advantage of large frames comes from their superior recoil management. Their additional mass and larger grips make shooting even the hottest .357 Magnum loads comfortable for extended sessions. This improved shooting experience translates directly to better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.

Large frames often feature longer barrels (5-8 inches), maximizing velocity and energy from magnum ammunition. Many also offer higher capacity, with the Model 627 holding 8 rounds instead of the typical 6. The generously sized grips provide excellent control for all hand sizes.

The drawback to large frames appears when portability matters. Their size and weight make concealed carry challenging, though not impossible. These revolvers excel for home defense, hunting, and recreational shooting where their superior handling characteristics outweigh concerns about bulk and weight.

History of the .357 Magnum Revolver

The .357 Magnum emerged during a crucial period in American history. In 1934, as prohibition ended, law enforcement faced increasingly well-armed criminals. The FBI and police departments needed more powerful firearms than the standard .38 Special revolvers of the time.

Elmer Keith, Phillip Sharpe, and Colonel D.B. Wesson collaborated to develop this groundbreaking cartridge. They stretched the .38 Special case by 1/8-inch while significantly increasing the powder charge. This simple but effective change produced dramatically improved ballistics without requiring entirely new firearms.

Smith & Wesson introduced the first .357 Magnum revolver in April 1935. Built on their large N-frame, these early guns featured a 3.5-inch to 8.75-inch barrel with a bright blue finish and checkered walnut grips. Famous FBI director J. Edgar Hoover received the first production model, serial number 1.

The new cartridge proved its effectiveness immediately. Law enforcement agencies across America adopted .357 Magnum revolvers for their superior stopping power. The round's flat trajectory and excellent accuracy made it popular with hunters as well.

By the 1950s, all major American revolver manufacturers offered .357 Magnum models. Colt introduced their Trooper and later the legendary Python. Smith & Wesson created the Combat Magnum (later renamed the Model 19) on their medium K-frame for officers who wanted a lighter duty gun.

The 1960s and 1970s saw continued refinement of .357 Magnum revolvers. Smith & Wesson introduced stainless steel models that resisted corrosion from sweat and weather. Ruger entered the market with their Security Six in 1968, followed by the stronger GP100 in 1985.

Despite the rise of semi-automatic pistols in police departments during the 1980s and 1990s, the .357 Magnum revolver maintained its popularity with civilian shooters. Its proven stopping power, inherent accuracy, and simple operation kept it relevant for personal defense and recreational shooting.

Today's .357 Magnum revolvers incorporate modern materials and manufacturing techniques while preserving the fundamental design that made them successful. Innovations like titanium frames, scandium alloys, and improved metallurgy have created stronger and lighter guns than ever before.

Final Thoughts

The .357 Magnum revolver remains relevant today thanks to its power, accuracy, and simplicity. These guns excel in roles from self-defense to hunting, with modern manufacturing enhancing their already solid design.

Match your frame size to your needs. Small frames conceal easily but handle recoil poorly. Medium frames offer the best balance for most shooters. Large frames tame recoil but add bulk and weight.

Barrel length affects performance significantly. Shorter barrels improve portability while longer ones enhance ballistics. Many shooters find 4-inch barrels hit the sweet spot between these factors.

Don't skimp on quality. The high pressures of magnum loads demand strong materials and precise construction. A well-made revolver will function reliably for decades.

The ability to shoot both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition adds tremendous versatility. Practice with affordable .38 Special rounds and load full-power magnums when needed.

Focus on finding a revolver that fits your hand well and meets your specific requirements. The perfect .357 Magnum for you depends on how it feels and functions in your hands, not just on paper specifications.

FAQs

Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in a .357 Magnum revolver?

Yes, all .357 Magnum revolvers can safely fire .38 Special ammunition. The .38 Special round is shorter but uses the same diameter bullet. Many shooters practice with cheaper .38 Special ammunition and reserve more expensive .357 Magnum rounds for defensive use.

What barrel length is best for a .357 Magnum revolver?

The ideal barrel length depends on your primary use. A 2-3 inch barrel works best for concealed carry, a 4-inch barrel offers a good all-purpose compromise, and 6+ inch barrels maximize velocity and sight radius for hunting or target shooting.

Are .357 Magnum revolvers good for beginners?

They can be excellent for beginners when loaded with .38 Special ammunition. The mild recoil helps develop proper technique, and the simple operation makes them easy to learn. Beginners should gradually work up to full-power .357 Magnum loads as their skills improve.

How long will a quality .357 Magnum revolver last?

A well-made .357 Magnum revolver from companies like Smith & Wesson, Ruger, or Colt can last for generations with basic maintenance. Many revolvers from the 1950s and 1960s continue to function perfectly today with proper care.

Do .357 Magnum revolvers require special maintenance?

They require the same basic maintenance as other revolvers. Regular cleaning after shooting, light lubrication of moving parts, and periodic inspection of critical components will keep your revolver functioning properly for decades.

Is a .357 Magnum too powerful for home defense?

Standard .357 Magnum loads may create excessive overpenetration in home defense scenarios. Many experts recommend using .38 Special +P or reduced-power .357 Magnum loads designed specifically for defensive use to minimize the risk to bystanders.