357sig bullet weights

[R.W.Dale]

I'd like to discuss the pros cons of 124 v 147 g bullets for the .357 sig cartridge. In this case defense ammo to be fired from a glock 32.

I reason that 147 g bullets will better take advantage of this cartridges added power over 9mm, anyone see a flaw in this logic

 

[jeffreybehr]

I started reloading about 50 years ago, for rifle only (.270 Winchester), and since then I've always prefered slightly lighter to slightly heavier bullets. In .270, that meant 130s instead of 150s, in .25/284 that meant 100s instead of 120s, etc.

Now in the pistols phase of my life, in the .40S&W and 10mm, I chose 155s and 165s over 180s; in the .45GAP, 185s (or 160g. Barnes all-copper TAC/XPs) over 200s or 230s; and in my 2 357SIGs, I've NEVER shot anything but 124s/125s. I guess I simply prefer higher velocity to higher bullet mass.

When one can buy a 125g. bullet that performs like this...

...in expansion tests and can be loaded safely to 1350 - 1375FPS, I don't even think about heavier bullets. Details on the expansion tests are here...
http://www.glocktalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1356994

 

[Ala Tom]

There really aren't enough different sizes to worry about: 100, 124/125 and 140. The 124/125 size gives you the most energy (about 500 ft lbs) which is good for self defense. In .40S&W you get that energy with a 155 gr bullet. That seems better to me. (Many guns convert between .357sig and .40S&W with a simple barrel change.)

 

[ATLDave]

There are lots of threads here and elsewhere about how to best balance light&fast versus heavy&slow. For a given caliber, heavier will give you better penetration, speed will give you more expansion. Debates rage about whether speed also gives you some shock value/effect.

Realistically, I'd reckon about any of the .357 sig JHP cartridges from reputable makers will be more than sufficient to deal with whatever 2-legged threat you encounter. That said, if you like a heavy bullet (with the attendant lower speed), why neck down to .357? Why not just use a .40?