.357 Magnum Loads

[Rocky Raab]

There are several good powders for the 357 in hunting loads.

For almost full power loads and 158-gr bullets, Blue Dot is great. It'll take you to about 90% of the highest possible speeds.

For the mostest you can get, the list is: 2400, W296/H110, AA9, Enforcer (Ramshot) and N110 (Vihta-Vouri). Of those, the two best choices are probably 2400 or W296/H110.

With 2400, you'll get better results with a standard primer, and with either of the ball powders, use a magnum. I like WW primers with 296 because the primers are made specifically for it.

You'll also need to use a firm crimp with heavy loads, both for ignition and to keep the bullets from backing out.

Any load that gives you 1200 fps with a 158-grain softpoint bullet will do fine for deer out to 75 yards - no farther.