All depends on your experience with handguns. The Atomic Bomb comment seems quite exagerrated, but again it depends on the person's experience.
I personally, love the recoil of the 357 out of my 4" Smith 686. It too is a heavy gun and with the Hogue tamer grips and the magnum loads, is a blast to shoot.
If you plan on shooting alot, shoot 38 spl and practice, work out the bad habits and get comfortable with your gun this load first. You'll learn about your gun and especially where to hold on target. You'll also save some $$$ with the 38 spl. Once you know you gun, you can get the big loads and you'll be much more satisfied that you spent your money well and increased your skill level without breaking the bank.
Just my two cents and hope this helps.
I personally, love the recoil of the 357 out of my 4" Smith 686. It too is a heavy gun and with the Hogue tamer grips and the magnum loads, is a blast to shoot.
If you plan on shooting alot, shoot 38 spl and practice, work out the bad habits and get comfortable with your gun this load first. You'll learn about your gun and especially where to hold on target. You'll also save some $$$ with the 38 spl. Once you know you gun, you can get the big loads and you'll be much more satisfied that you spent your money well and increased your skill level without breaking the bank.
Just my two cents and hope this helps.