Best .357 and .44 mag factory defense ammo in rifle?

[DHart]

I just realized that the velocity and energy of .357 and .44 magnum rounds increases by HUGE amounts from pistol specs when fired through a long barrel, such as a carbine.... like by at least DOUBLE! That's pretty mind boggling. And makes me realize how potentially powerful a Marlin 1894C in .357 mag really is.

But the next question is, what would be the best ammo/bullet type for shooting .357 or .44 mag from a rifle for defense against the two-legged variety? It would be important to make sure that expansion doesn't get out of control too quickly.

Wouldn't JHP's practically expand to smitherines on impact? Would it be better to go with JSP's?

Then there's the need to make sure there isn't a chain detonation in the mag tube due to bullet tips hitting primers with a bit too much sharp impact... more reason to go with JSP. JHP might be ok, but is it at all possible that the sharp edge of the jacket around the hollow point might be sharp enough to detonate a primer ahead of it?

 

[Z_Infidel]

I stick with 158 gr soft point ammo in my 1894C. With the increased velocity you get from the carbine I'm not sure the classic 125 gr JHP bullet will hold together long enough to offer sufficient penetration on anything but small game. The fragments that break off might make a real mess within a few inches of impact, but I'd still rather get a bit more penetration. I think the 158 gr soft point is an ideal all around bullet for use in a .357 Mag carbine.

That said, there are many forum members with far more knowledge than I about the issue and I'd like to hear other opinions on the matter.