Please help me pick a carry load

[novaDAK]

For my 4" .357 revolver. I have shot all of the above so recoil is not an issue.
Thanks!

EDITED to add: I'll be carrying the same while both at home, out in the truck, and out in the woods (not worried about large bear where I go)

 

[Oro]

I like 158gr JHP or SJHP, like the Federal 158gr 357 HydraShock or CCI/Speer 158gr Gold Dot.

 

[Fetus]

.38 spl p+ 125gr gold dot (short barrel)

 

[sidheshooter]

For a split between those three carry scenarios, I also vote for a heavier .357 load; Oro's speer 158 gr. GDHP (or buffalo bore's tactical lite version of same) or the old 145 silvertip.

FWIW, I did a .38 thread about 147 +P+ vs. the old "FBI" load, and the HydraShok got panned a bit. At any rate, when in truck or woods, may as well use at least *some* of that extra power on tap in a .357, hence the above. GDHP or silvertip will also be somewhat less demonic on the shooter's end for indoor issues (so I have been led to believe).

 

[Landric]

Given the broad range of uses, I'd go with the 145 grain Silvertip. My preference for defense is a 125 grain SJHP, but for a woods gun using the same ammo, I think the 145 is a better idea.

 

[a2fireball]

Federal .357 Magnum 125 grain jacketed hollowpoint.

 

[oneounceload]

I voted for other - I would prefer a 158 JHP from any of the major makers, (whichever brand works best in YOUR gun)

 

[sohcgt2]

158gr JHP you choose the Mfg. For ccw I would want the heaviest round I could put downrange, heavier bullets tend to increase stopping power even though ballistics might show they are carrying less energy. A 125gr bullet may do more damage to the target but a 158gr bullet will be more likely to slow or stop the aggressor.

 

[KINGMAX]

145 grain Silvertips

I prefer a 145 grain Silvertip HP bullet for my 357 PPR's. (= my .02)

 

[dpeticca]

I like the 125 Grain Golden Sabers. They're a mild load for 357, but hotter than 38. Shoots nice from a 5" SW 357, not as loud either.

 

[ddc]

.38+P Speer GD 135

 

[baxtereyes]

What Revolver are you carrying

For what revolver?

 

[novaDAK]

.....

 

[Andy W]

158 grain JHP.

 

[S&Wfan]

I voted for the .38 Spl. LSWC-HP from your choices but . . .

I'd carry what shoots best in that particular specimen. Every gun I carry has a load that's been selected for that particular gun. Every gun has makes/weight/types of bullets it shoots best.

Also, the purpose of the round would come into play. I'd carry a different round in the woods while deer hunting than I would for self defense, generally.

Half the fun of shooting . . . is discovering what works and shoots best!

Good luck