I was going through some of my old records and ran across a test where I shot off five rounds of 357 Magnum Federal 125 grain JHP, part number 357B. Yes, the magical stuff that has been touted as the best manstopper on the planet. At the time, I was working for a federal law enforcement agency in a non-LEO capacity. The agents were clearing out their ammo locker, and knowing I was a shooter, they kicked some 357B my way. I still have most of it and am saving it for a REALLY rainy day.
The test gun was my six inch Ruger GP100. I don't recall how far out I put my chronograph, but surely far enough out that the muzzle blast wouldn't screw things up. At the time (2009), I was using a Shooting Chrony.
The result: Average Velocity 5 rounds = 1550 fps. Energy 667 foot pounds.
I have read test results where the same load spit out of a 4 inch Smith at 1442 fps. So, 100 fps less with 2 inches less barrel. I would say that 50 fps per inch is about right. Your mileage may vary of course.
I have read Marshall Sanow, but I am not going to make any great pronouncements concerning the magical stopping power of 357B, or any handgun cartridge for that matter. I will say that my Ruger is at the top edge of what I call "handy", and it doesn't pain me to wear it on my hip. That being said, if I really really need to get serious, and I have the time, I will grab a rifle. For a handgun though, 357B is kind of stout. Hate to fire it in a snubby. That would be brutal.
The test gun was my six inch Ruger GP100. I don't recall how far out I put my chronograph, but surely far enough out that the muzzle blast wouldn't screw things up. At the time (2009), I was using a Shooting Chrony.
The result: Average Velocity 5 rounds = 1550 fps. Energy 667 foot pounds.
I have read test results where the same load spit out of a 4 inch Smith at 1442 fps. So, 100 fps less with 2 inches less barrel. I would say that 50 fps per inch is about right. Your mileage may vary of course.
I have read Marshall Sanow, but I am not going to make any great pronouncements concerning the magical stopping power of 357B, or any handgun cartridge for that matter. I will say that my Ruger is at the top edge of what I call "handy", and it doesn't pain me to wear it on my hip. That being said, if I really really need to get serious, and I have the time, I will grab a rifle. For a handgun though, 357B is kind of stout. Hate to fire it in a snubby. That would be brutal.