11 replies to this topic

[tbrincefield]

So, I have a 608 with a 6 1/2 inch barrel that I'm thinking of turning into an actual primary hunting piece instead of a sidearm. I would just like to know what the options are for .357 in reference to hunting. I'm thinking 180 gr. bullets for the really heavy game (pigs, big deer, bear???) and regular old 158s for deer or predators. I'm pretty accurate with it out to 50 yards now with open sights, with a good scope I should be able to get to 80 or even 100. Any suggestions? Thanks...Tim

[NVScouter]

.357 in a pistol can take all of the above but I don't recomend it. The .357 will net some decent penitration but expansion is very so-so. First wounded deer I had to track all day was shot 5 times by a .357mag with 158gr solids at 30yds. 4 of those were lung/organ shots and he still took off, we found him almost dead in a fence, or we wouldn't have ever found him. If your in a rifle then it is fine however, or used as a backup.The other problem is even as a realoader the bullet choice over 158gr is slim. Most of the 180grs you mentioned are for silloette and dont expand causing wounded game. Most 158gr are made for self defense and expand too fast, causing wounded game. With .429, .452-454 bullets you get more that are designed to work on game.Get a 44mag, 45LC (Ruger only), or a 454Casul. A .357 is a fine round with tons of pistols available, it has just shown time and again that it is underpowered for most use as a hunting pistol round. A .22Lr will take a deer as well as a .177 pellet gun but they are not the aproperate calibers to show propper respect for your game.

[ShooterJohn]

I have to agree that though the .357 has taken all of the game you mention it isn't the best choice or recommended. If you attempted taking those animals I would recommend a rifle or shotgun backup. Even the .44 mag isn't enough at distance.

[tbrincefield]

The problem is I don't want to buy another pistol, and this thing is too big to carry as a backup. If it was 4" it would even be a little better. I would sell it, but it was an 18th birthday present from my dad. Guess I'll keep looking into options...what can I hunt with it?

[ShooterJohn]

You could always get the barrel cut down it's a very simple procedure.

[clampdaddy]

I'd scope it, fill 'er up with some petal to the metal 125gr hollow points, and blast coyotes with it. I always wanted to do that with mine but I think a scope would look a bit funny on a gun that only wears a 4 5/8ths inch barrel.

[45Colt]

Hi,You probably should look into bigger calibers.Keep your gift from your dad in one piece.You'll be glad you did,when he does pass on.I can't comment on a 41 mag.Never owned one.I have both, the 44 mags,a 7 1/2" RedHawk, and a Winchester 44 mag Trapper/carbine lever action.And did buy about 8-10 years ago,a 454 Casull.And the 45 Colts for it.The F.A. is a 6" model 83.It is heavy.So, I started to buy the single action 45's.The most, many would recommend,is the Ruger BlackHawk.Next, is the Super BlackHawk.The barrel lengths are up to you.With either a 44 mag,or a 45 Colt,you'll have a wide range of bullet weights. From jacketed to hardcast lead.My best to you.

[Granite]

My dad used his Colt Python for years to shoot deer. He even used it for yotes. But he practiced at least 3 times a week. He kept his shot within 40 yards max. He aimed for the head, neck area. He only shot top notch handloads. This is a man who has been hunting for almost 50 years. 9 times out of 10 he would drop them in their tracks, but that one would make it maybe 75 yards straight into heavy cover. You really had to watch to see where the deer ended up. Know your limitations and know the limitations of your weapon. Practice as much as you can and use a rest if you have one.

[NVScouter]

This is exactly what I'm talking about. Your Dad had a quality pistol most likely with a 6-8" barrel, quality ammo, close shots, and was very proficient with his weapon. Still 1 of 10 made it 75 yards into thick brush, in more open areas the deer may have made it 300 yards and been lost.So it can and has been done...but it is in no means an ideal or even recomended.

[outdoorsguy29]

I to, have a 608 but with a 4" barrel. I hear that wadcutter ammo does more damage when hunting as it will actually punch a hole through all the organs and if from factory Buffalo Bore or Garrett should also break the shoulder bones...so I've been told.

[donkey12]

I believe Garret only loads for 44 mag and 45-70 gov.

[outdoorsguy29]

For my 4 in barrel 608 I have hollow point ammo,Buffaloe Bore hardcast ammo and Leverevolution ammo. Would any of these be suitable for either deer or pig?