Quote:
If you had to pick between a 357mag and a 45acp and this would be your only weapon, which caliber would you pick and why.
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You asked for only those 2 choices and not 45Colt aka long colt so here goes.
I would pick the 357Magnum in a S&W or in a Ruger REVOLVER. (You can buy a Ruger in D/A or in a sweet S/A Revolver too.)
I do have a S&W Model 686 with a 6 inch barrel. Ruger is sweet too. I use 38Special Plus P, 357Magnums - hollow points, all kinds of ammunition including wadcutters. I buy ammunition and my husband reloads too. She is a straight shooter and others who have shot mine are very impressed!
I have trouble racking the slide in some semi automatic pistols so that would limit me due to my weaker left arm/hand. I have owned semi automatic pistols and could RACK the slide in what I owned. I would not pick a 45ACP because the ones that I have tried are difficult for me to rack the slide on due to my old injury.
If I wanted to use anything in a 45Caliber... I would stick to my Ruger Blackhawk in 45Colt aka long colt not 45ACP. You did not mention that in your question though. I like Freedom Arms but I don't own one... my husband does though! Ruger suits me fine for what I own and in that caliber!
If I had to pick ONLY 1 firearm and in ONLY 1 caliber for self defense and for the woods, which I frequent, I would choose a good/strong REVOLVER and it would be in 45Colt aka long colt. You did not list that choice though and only listed 45ACP. My second firearm caliber would be in 22LR. I shoot more 45Colt and 22LR now too. Sorry about adding MORE to my post! Grin.
Best wishes. Do you have a special brand that you are looking at in 357Magnum and in 45ACP? My husband loves his Kimber in 45ACP. Glocks are nice too. There are many nice 45ACPs out there... I don't own one though.
I own and shoot what suits me due to some physical limitations and because of the areas that I frequent. I shoot well with my choices but I am NO expert. I factor in my costs too. His reloading saves a lot and 22LR ammunition saves too. My western style, leather, Triple K belt and 2 holsters hold a 45Colt and a 22LR.
Best wishes.
Catherine