25 Best 357 Magnum Revolvers – March 2023

The .357 Magnum cartridge has been with us since 1934 and has turned into one of America’s most popular rounds for home defense, handgun hunting and general badassery. So what is the best 357 Magnum revolver in 2023?

Well there’s massive variety here, thanks to the various specialist firearms that have evolved to take advantage of the 357 Magnum revolver ammo’s exceptional terminal ballistics.

We’ve got long hunting handguns for sale that belong on the African Savannah, snubnosed 357 Magnums that fit in your pocket for the urban jungle and a few others you might not have considered.

Here are our picks for the best 357 for sale in 2023.

1. Taurus Raging Hunter

• Price: $908.99
• Barrel length: 5.13 inch
• Total: 10.85 inch
• Weight: 3lb
• Capacity: 7

The Taurus Raging Hunter was an absolute sensation when it launched last year and it’s still our favorite new revolver.

You don’t just get a 7 round capacity in this large frame set-up. There’s clever barrel tech and a fresh design, which isn’t easy to do with a basic large frame revolver.

Now you can order a hand cannon with an 8,38″ barrel, chambered for 454 Casull or 44 Magnum loads, or a 6.75″ version. But unless you’re a serious hunter or gangster, leave the long barrel. This smaller 357 Magnum loads version is pretty much the perfect package.

Barrel Shroud for Recoil Control

That aluminum weighted barrel shroud contains a gas expansion chamber that works with the custom porting to help fight muzzle climb. It’s less of an issue with the smaller caliber, but every little helps. Also, integral compensators are just cool.

That barrel work combines with the two-tone brushed stainless steel handgun and matte black. Rubberized cushioned grips add to the modern look, as well as absorb impact. It’s instantly recognizable and there’s a race gun element, which we like.

Of course the Taurus Raging Hunter is also just about half the price of rivals that do exactly the same job, and that seventh round just seals the deal.

It’s a no-brainer. These are the best revolvers for sale in 2023 if you like modern tech, the modern look, and you also enjoy saving money.

2. Smith & Wesson Model 340PD

• Price: $1,152.99
• Barrel: 1.875 inch
• Total: 6.3 inch
• Weight: 0.74lb
• Capacity: 5

This is the lightest 357 of all time, and a real. Is it the best 357 Magnum revolver? For personal defense, it’s an option if you like recoil.

It can also take the 38 Special Ammo, too, which is a big plus in a gun this small. This ultra light 357 snub gives you options for when you don’t need to light up the night sky and want more precision and recoil control. It also means it features on our list of 38 revolvers too.

1950s Tech Brought Screaming Up to Date

These double action revolvers are an evolution of the Smith & Wesson Model 40 Centennial Airlite that in turn is based on the classic J-Frame revolver that has been with us since the 1950s.

Lightweight modern materials have transformed compact concealed carry revolvers, though.

The S&W Performance Center Model is 0.74lb of all metal-frame fury, and it’s just 6.3 inches long with a 1.875″ barrel. For 357 Magnum loads, that’s amazing.

A Micro Compact 357? Yes.

That’s a micro-compact pistol, which is almost unheard of. But then that is a 1.875 inch long barrel, which isn’t much.

A titanium alloy cylinder gave S&W the confidence to shave that down to the limit and the snag-free, enclosed hammer means it’s a much better option to carry. Fiber optic sights help too, but you can put a crimson trace laser on there.

This Performance Center Model is a great sock gun, a back-up gun and it’s a brilliant option for hidden gun safes in the home. Not everybody is a US Marine, and simple guns like this save lives.

If you want a virtually failsafe five rounds of 357 Magnum revolver ammo in a lightweight pistol that’s easy to conceal, this is your new gun. Or you can order the 360PD with an exposed hammer.

3. Colt Python

• Price: $1,499.99
• Barrel length: 4.25 inch
• Total: 9.75 inch
• Weight: 2.63lb
• Capacity: 6

Built on the legacy of the Colt Snake Gun, the Colt Python 357 Mag is a thoroughly modern take on the old six-shooter. This is also arguably the most complete handgun here and it is also California compliant.

It is definitely one of the best 357 Magnum revolvers on sale, at least.

The Colt Python 357 Mag is basically a stainless steel handgun with wooden grips and a fluted barrel with an adjustable rear sight. Nothing especially groundbreaking then. But not everybody wants groundbreaking.

A lot of people just like the look and feel of a classic, perhaps with a few nods to the modern world.

It’s shiny steel and wood with a fluted barrel to save a little weight. Pretty good start and there’s always the Colt Custom Shop if you want to spend more…

Ready For Anything, By Design

That’s kind of the point. Since the first Python went on sale in 1955, it was meant for hunting, self-defense and even shooting competitions without any mods.

It’s a heavy barrel that is fluted to save weight and the .41 frame that sits between the smaller 38 and the large frame revolvers.

The end result is what many believe to be the finest balanced pistol off the peg. Essentially, a lot of the trick barrels you see on other guns are trying to achieve a balance the Colt Python 357 offers out the box.

Beyond that there are no special tricks. Again, that’s kind of the point of the Colt Python.

4. S&W Model 66 Combat Magnum

• Price: $968.99
• Barrel: 2.75 inch
• Total: 7.8 inch
• Weight: 2.1lb
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Law enforcement and homeowners alike have relied on this S&W Combat Magnum for 50 years.

The Model spent a decade in the wilderness after being put in mothballs, but the public spoke and the best gun came back. Smith & Wesson’s 66-8 is basically the same K-frame recipe with a slight muzzle heavy feel that fans believe is the perfect way to balance the 357 Magnum recoil.

Unlike the original, the 66-8 comes with a two-piece barrel with a shroud to reduce engineering costs and increase accuracy thanks to the inherent tension in the system.

Pure Engineering on Show

A triangular cylinder latch release and a bead blasted matte finish are other new touches that just ooze high quality.

Synthetic grips are just a sign of the 66 moving with the times, but be sure that old hands will screw on their own wood grips in due course. They won’t need to mess with the full-length extractor rod though.

The original was arguably one of the best service handguns/revolvers of all time. Now the new gun maybe isn’t quite as convincing, but it’s still a fantastic all-rounder, and great for a new shooter. The Performance Center Pro Series Model, naturally, is something else.

5. Ruger GP100 Match Champion

• Price: $759.99
• Barrel: 4.2 inch
• Total: 9.5 inch
• Weight: 2.5lb
• Capacity: 7 rounds

The Ruger GP100 Match Champion has been with us since 1985 when the original gun replaced the Ruger Security Six.

It’s another Double Action trigger that is designed for simplicity. Point and squirt operation is another way to put it.

The Ruger GP100 Match Champion is also another wheelgun that has raised its game to 7 rounds of .357 ammo. Fill it with special rounds and you have serious stopping power.

A triple-locking cylinder that locks into the frame at the front, rear and bottom offers more positive alignment. That helps the all-important reliability with the Ruger GP100.

Race Gun Sights and Finish

The Ruger adjustable sights are upgraded low drag target specials with a low profile fiber optic front sight and target rear sight. It’s a race gun touch that elevates a relatively cheap revolver.

Even the grips are clever. These are cushioned rubber grips with a hardwood insert. That gives elasticity and impact absorption, together with the reassuring feel of traditional wood.

The low-profile hammer doesn’t extend beyond the plane of the gun in any direaction and it’s small touches like this that combine to make a truly outstanding pistol.

The Sturm Ruger is heavy, but it’s competition ready and should be going long after you and me are pushing up daisies. And the GP100 Standard is cheaper.

Big Bore Specialist

Ruger makes some of the best big bore pistols in the world. Hunters love them, Alaskans use them for polar bear defense and competition shooters around the world love them too. The Ruger SP101 and more are further down, but the GP100 Standard, or the Match Champion, are both winners.

The Ruger is more or less a match for anything here, at a price that is almost a joke in comparison. That’s why Ruger has a devoted following, and why you’ll love yours as much as they do if you buy yours today.

6. Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus

• Price: $977.99
• Caliber: 357 Mag/38sp
• Barrel: 3 inch
• Total: 11 inch
• Weight: 2.43lb
• Capacity: 7

Smith and Wesson features heavily on this list, as you’d expect from the company that brought us the ammunition in the first place. We like extreme pistols more, but this all-rounder should probably be the overall winner. It’s the benchmark, the gatekeeper for those that came after.

The S&W Model 686 357 Magnum is based on the S&W medium frame stainless steel handgun and it’s basically the safe option. But if you’re only going to buy one, make it the Model 686 357 Magnum.

Just One More Round

Smith & Wesson’s Model 686 has been in safes since the 1980s and has remained largely unchanged for a reason. The new 686 Plus, is a neat way of saying it’s the 7-round cylinder rather than the 6-round version that is also on offer.

You can order a long barrel, a short and this one in-between. Aside from the target sights, Hogue monogrip, round butt grip frame and polished steel, there really isn’t much that stands out.

That’s the idea of the mid-range, medium frame.

Well the long trigger is the stuff of legend and is one of the main reasons this it still sees active service as a duty pistol.

And combined with all the other great qualities of reliability, durability and accuracy, that’s why this medium frame icon is still our first choice.

7. Kimber K6s DASA Combat

• Price: $1,004.99
• Barrel: 4 inch
• Total: 8.62 inch
• Weight: 1.6lb
• Capacity: 6

Kimber is known for making some of the best 1911 pistols on the planet. Now it has turned its hand to centerfire revolvers, and the Kimber K6s line is a work of art.

Essentially this is a J-frame line with 6 rounds of 357 Magnum ammunition. So it packs a lot of ammunition into a relatively small frame. Most J-frames carry 5 rounds.

It’s just one more bullet, but it’s also 20% more ammunition. That counts in a home defense situation, or for concealed carry handguns. Everywhere, really…

Kimber produces some of the best 357 Magnum revolvers in the world.

Lightweight and Compact

It’s almost as long as a full-size Kimber 1911, but put that aside. This is a packaging marvel.

Kimber has also produced a famously short and smooth trigger pull of 3.25-4.25lb, which does offer a pretty sweet shooting experience.

The styling stands out too. It’s hard to redesign the wheel, but the smooth barrel shroud, round butt heel and even the cylinder release are all just different.

Are they better? That’s for you to decide, but the general feeling is that Kimber smashed it out the park with its first foray into the world of 357 revolvers.

If you haven’t tried one, you might want to rethink your big brand buying decision. These might be the best 357 revolvers on the market.

8. Taurus Tracker 627

• Price: $537.99
• Barrel: 4 inch
• Total: 8.75 inch
• Weight: 2.19lb
• Capacity: 7 rounds

If you’re looking for a cheap, dependable 7 shot revolver, then take a look at the Taurus Tracker 627.

You get cushioned grips, a shrouded barrel, muzzle device, red ramp front sight and rubber grips to subdue recoil.

All for a bargain price Taurus model. These aren’t the best 357 Magnum revolvers, but they are among the best value.

9. Smith & Wesson 627 Performance Center Model

• Price: $1,631.99
• Barrel: 5 inch
• Total: 11 inch
• Weight: 2.7lb
• Capacity: 8 rounds

This was the overall winner for a long time, until the Taurus redefined the pricing structure. Take the money out the equation, though, and this is still a better handgun.

For a start, you get 8 rounds in the cylinder. There’s a chrome hammer and trigger stop etc tuned and fettled by the custom gunsmiths Smith and Wesson has on staff. You can feel that in every single action revolver trigger pull. Or Double…

Obviously you’ve got the long double, but these are creamy single actions revolver, too. It is on point at the range for target shooting.

If money is no object, well we got more expensive pistols for you…

But if you appreciate value and also don’t mind spending on quality, then this might just be the elitist sweet spot.

10. Chiappa Rhino 50

• Price: $1,356.99
• Barrel: 5 inch
• Total: 9.5 inch
• Weight: 1.97lb
• Capacity: 6

The Chiappa Rhino is a revolution and a much better pistol than you might give it credit for. The SAO version is also California legal, but this double action trigger is just as good in its own special way.

It’s easy to dismiss something so different as a style over substance gimmick. Don’t do that, there’s a lot to like about the Chiappa Firearms model and any serious double action revolver enthusiast should own one.

This Chiappa Firearms pistol weighs less than 2lb, offers greater repeatability than almost anything here and squashes recoil. These are all established goals of any innovative firearms manufacturing company.

Lowest Recoil Design?

A low bore axis does more for recoil control than any clever gas expansion chamber tech ever could. Shooting from the bottom cylinder works.

The low bore axis transfers the recoil back through the arm, rather than up and away from the target. The grip is shaped to encourage that dynamic.

That gave the designers room to shave the weight and play round with the structure. But it also brought problems.

Fibre optic sights can’t go on the barrel anymore, so that raised rib and unique front end was borne from necessity. You don’t think they wanted the gun to look like a rhino, do you?

Trick Tech Throughout Gun

The ribbed shroud is about as light as it can be, and the locking mechanism with the frame gives additional rigidity, accuracy and reliability.

The cocking mechanism isn’t really the hammer either. It’s a lever attached to the hammer that cocks the gun then retreats out the way. That is clever.

It decreases the mass that’s moving during the firing cycle and also eliminates snagging. As does the cylinder release.

Engineering Befitting the Best Manufacturing Company

The engineering leaves nothing to chance either. This is 7075 aluminum with steel internals and everything metal is CNC machined. The tolerances are next to perfect and Chiappa Italy is a firearms manufacturer with the respect of the industry on that front.

A completely new design doesn’t come along that often and we welcome Chiappa Firearms to this world. It wasn’t around when Samuel Colt made his first six-shooter and the new kid has gone a completely different direction.

We like the Chiappa Rhino, a lot.

11 Colt King Cobra Carry

• Price: $849.99
• Barrel: 2 inch
• Total: 8.2 inch
• Weight: 1.6lb
• Capacity: 6

The Colt King Cobra Target 357 Magnum might be your favorite with the longer barrel. But we prefer the 2″ barrel, just because really.

You get a heavy duty frame and a 6 round capacity in a gun that was reintroduced to the market in 2019. It’s brushed stainless and you can get an enclosed hammer Double Action Revolver or SA/DA version of the Colt King Cobra Carry.

Check out the King Cobra Target edition with a 4.25″ barrel, as well as the carry revolvers.

12. Ruger New Model Blackhawk

• Price: $767.99
• Barrel: 4.62 inch
• Total: 10.25 inch
• Weight: 2.8lb
• Capacity: 6

The Ruger New Model Blackhawk evolved from the Ruger Single-Six, an unashamedly cowboy-style six shooter that took over when Colt pulled back from the market.

In the early models, it wasn’t safe to keep all six chambers loaded as accidental discharges were a fact of life when the hammer rested against a loaded chamber.

Thankfully, today’s long barrel Ruger Blackhawk is a better gun. Get one in black, blued stainless, whatever.

Now the Ruger Blackhawk is a traditional Western style six shooter with a modern safety. This is the face of the old West, but behind the scenes the Ruger is a match for almost anything in the modern world. The Ruger Blackhawk is fun for target shooting too.

13. Rock Island Armory AL3.0

• Price: $877.99
• Barrel: 2 inch
• Weight: 1.50lb
• Capacity: 6

You can find this snubnose 357 Magnum revolver under the Rock Island Armory and Armscor labels and you will get a great matte black lump of steel with a Hogue monogrip that does all you need.

There’s a drop safety, six rounds of 357 Magnum ammo and not much else on this 6 shot revolver.

But customer reviews on these guns are stellar and we always find ourselves recommending them as one of the best concealed carry revolvers.

14. Ruger LCRx

• Price: $649.99
• Barrel: 1.87 inch
• Total: 6.5 inch
• Weight: 1.06lb
• Capacity: 5

The best selling Ruger LCR is a solid budget option if you don’t want to spend $1000+ on the best concealed carry revolvers, but you do want one.

You can order the enclosed hammer Ruger LCR, or the Ruger LCRx with the exposed hammer and single action revolver option. But it’s a big snag point if concealed carry is your priority.

Having said that, the LCRx is much easier to find at the moment. Again, that attests to the popularity of the best concealed carry focused five shot revolver.

The Ruger LCR comes with a simple Hogue monogrip that fits the occasion. It’s lightweight without being too clever and the design just looks right.

That’s because it is. If you want a concealed carry, you won’t go wrong with a Ruger LCR. Or LCRx.

15. Nighthawk Custom Korth ULX

• Price: $4,859.99
• Barrel: 6 inch
• Total: 11.65 inch
• Weight: 3.15lb
• Capacity: 8

That price, high isn’t it? But then the Nighthawk Custom Korth ULX really is quite the thing…

Get past the price tag and the window dressing and you might see something that appeals though. This is an 8-round revolver that is also ridiculously sexy, high price, high spec, the works.

We love firearms, handguns, revolvers, rifles and shotguns that push the bounds here. Gun porn is fun. Don’t pretend it isn’t.

Nighthawk Custom is a spectacular firearms manufacturer. You can see more of their work here.

It’s a Competition Shooter’s Gun, Clearly…

This is a pure competition spec handgun now, or an extreme race gun, if that’s your thing. The custom porting helps cooling, the guns is basically one big Picatinny rail, top and bottom, which is forged into the barrel housing to save weight.

Now, the rear sights. Calling that fully adjustable sights seems like underselling this whole thing.

The sights comes with removable sideplates and you can mount everything from optics, scopes, red dot sights through to a sextant. If that’s what you want to do.

You can also shoot 38 Special ammunition with this gun. Because why the Hell not? There’s a cut in the cylinder to hold the moonclips for faster reloading. Then you can use this near sniper rifle to send 38 Special ammo down range all day at target practice.

Overkill is Good, Sometimes…

Now unless you’re an actual target shooter, most of this expensive window dressing is just insane.

Even if you’re hunting, you don’t really need this infinite adjustability and most of it would probably get in your way. But some people don’t think like that. Some people love engineering and just want the best.

16. Chiappa Firearms Chiappa Rhino 200DS

• Price: $932.99
• Barrel: 2 inch
• Total: 6.62 inch
• Weight: 1.6lb
• Capacity: 6

Chiappa Firearms has produced a carry version of its innovative Rhino and, frankly, we love it.

Would we EDC this carry revolver? I mean maybe, but it’s more about just having stuff like this and feeling it in your hand sometimes. Those can be the best gun for a specific mood.

This Chiappa Firearms mini Rhino is an art piece as much as a firearm. We love the low slung barrel that absolutely does reduce recoil and put the force back in one clean line through your shooting arm.

The grip angle somehow just works too. This Chiappa Firearmns takes some getting used to, and it does kick, but it is absolutely amazing once you get your eye in

17. Taurus Model 605 Protector Polymer

• Price: $409.99
• Barrel: 2 inch
• Total: 6.62 inch
• Weight: 1.26lb
• Capacity: 5

Not everybody has $1000 to spend on EDC revolver models. For them, the good folks at Taurus have worked miracles to produce what was a $300 handgun. Now it’s more expensive, but still a relatively cheap gun.

A polymer frame isn’t just cheaper, it also creates a lighter handgun for concealed carry. Of course the cylinder is contrasting steel. If that was plastic, too, you may have a few issues.

If you’re worried about those anyway, then don’t be. This best-seller has sold chambered for 38 special revolvers right through to 410 shotgun shells. Owner reviews for these centerfire revolvers are beyond enthusiastic. It’s easy to see why this 357 snub nose has such a following for personal and home protection.

This is a solid, simple, easy to shoot revolver. That makes it accessible for newcomers, and it’s also fun at the shooting range for old hands.

Cushioned rubber grips, a low profile proper hammer, and a fiber-optic front, rather than the basic bead sight you expected, are all just great touches in this price range. Don’t dismiss the polymer revolver from Taurus, it’s much better than that super cheap price tag suggests.

The Taurus Judge is basically the grown up metal gun. A case hardened version of the plastic pistol, if you will. Is the Taurus Judge better, though? We’re not sure…

18. Dan Wesson 715

• Price: $1,539
• Caliber 357 Magnum Cartridge
• Barrel: 6 inch
• Total: 9.5 inch
• Weight: 2.94lb
• Capacity: 6

The Dan Wesson 715 has become an instant smash hit with hunters and competitive target shooters alike. They are pretty much the most demanding groups, especially at long range.

So that’s a good sign.

The Dan Wesson offers a modular system, as much as a Dan Wesson pistol, and you can switch out barrels and cushioned rubber grips in seconds, kind of. That means you can configure your gun exactly as you want for the event at hand, with Hogue rubber grips or a hardwood insert.

That’s a big deal when one shot can change the course of your day and you’re going against the best in the world.

Dan Wesson can always do that. he company produces some truly great semi-automatic pistols and revolvers that feature heavily on our lists for the best hunting handguns and full size 45 1911s. Concealed carry 1911s, too, if you can find a Dan Wesson Eco right now.

You’ll only find the Dan Wesson used here, and the company has shifted its focus to semi-auto pistols. Check the best ones here.

• The Best Dan Wesson handguns.

Small Changes Add Up to A Lot

Another huge plus with the Dan Wesson 715 is the tensioned barrel and lower shroud. that essentially resonates ‘in tune’ with the frame. That improves accuracy and reduces wear and tear significantly.

The forward crane latch is in front of the cylinder and is paired with a rear ball detent. That helps tighten the barrel like a guitar string, and to align the barrel and the cylinder correctly while firing.

Small Touches Add Up

Other minor adjustments include a clockwise rotating cylinder that turns in the same direction as the crane locks. Over thousands of revolutions, that makes a huge difference to your revolver parts & accessories bill.

Finally, there’s another barrel shroud to consider here. This one is called the Dan Wesson HV6, which is a Heavy Vent barrel apparently.

You can order the 8″ barrel, too, although you’ll pay almost $500 more for the extra 2 inch extension. Insert your own joke here…

19. Ruger Redhawk

• Price: $949.99
• Caliber 357 Magnum/38 Special
• Barrel: 4.2 inch
• Total: 9.5 inch
• Weight: 3.06lb
• Capacity: 8 rounds

The Ruger Redhawk is the double action version of the SAO Blackhawk, and it too is a legend. From small game hunting through to old school dispute settling, this gun can do it all.

Now the Ruger also gets a single-spring trigger mechanism for a smoother, long pull. It’s steel with no side plates construction and simple but effective sights. Recoil reduction comes from the extra weight.

The Ruger Redhawk crams 8 rounds into a frame that is much smaller than the giant Ruger Super Redhawk, which takes 44 Magnum rounds and yet was really designed for the 454 Casull. The Super Redhawk is a legend in its own right, and features in several other lists.

It’s a lot of ammo for all magnum loads, and there’s a lot to like about the Ruger Redhawk. It’s one of America’s most popular wheelguns for a reason and works for hunting at long range and for defensive duties.

20. Kimber K6s

• Price: $996.99
• Caliber 357 Magnum Cartridge
• Barrel: 2 inch
• Total: 6.62 inch
• Weight: 1.44lb
• Capacity: 6

This is the carry version of the larger gun that makes an appearance further up. Together with some Kimber Custom shop accessories if you can find a full Custom Defense Package pistol.

Smaller, With More 357 Magnum Loads Ammo

The main ambition with the new model was to match the opposition in terms of size and weight, while offering more ammunition.

So you get six rounds in a small frame revolver. That’s good, but it makes its own niche where you have to pass over lighter carry guns for that extra bullet.

The Custom Defense Package 357 mag revolver means the gun has gone to the Kimber Custom shop for additional fettling. That does matter and you can feel the additional work in every creamy trigger pull.

It also comes out with the two-tone finish, matte black and steel, and wood grips. That’s the signature color scheme you can see on the Kimber Ultra CDP compact 1911 45 ACP.

This is a crisp, accurate and reliable gun. It’s not the leader in any one department, but it is a kind of urban tactical revolver. There’s a lot to like here and it can certainly earn a place in collectors’ safes in a variety of barrel lengths.

21. Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker

• Price: $1,899
• Caliber 357 Mag
• Barrel: 7.5 inch
• Total: 13 inch
• Weight: 2.69lb
• Capacity: 6

This really is a bone fide new model Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker. Yes it costs a fortune and you can buy any number of tribute acts for a fraction of the money, but just a few of you will want the real deal.

In the Old West, the Colt Peacemaker basically WAS the law and every Sherriff had one. This is also the gun that won the American Civil War.

The Colt Single Action Army is intertwined with the history of America and you can own a faithful recreation from the company that started it all.

Short Barrel Versions Available

You can get the shorter barrel for a faster draw. This is the long range sniper with fixed . It’s the AR pistol of its day, we guess, and a heavy barrel in its own right.

Get this, then you can go live out your little cowboy fantasies. Alternatively, do what a lot of others have done, put the gun on display and smile at the fact that you own a Colt Peacemaker.

You own the gun And nobody can take that away from you. Unless they rob you, but that’s getting paranoid. Besides, you have a Colt Peacemaker for just such occasions.

22. Smith & Wesson Model 686 Snubnose PC

• Price: $1,382.99
• Caliber 357 Magnum/38 Special
• Barrel: 2.5 inch
• Total: 7.5 inch
• Weight: 2.13lb
• Capacity: 7

What is the best .357 Mag revolver for Concealed Carry in 2023? Well we answered that with a hammerless lightweight special further up.

But those guns are just for that one specific purpose.

This new Pro Series model is just a small pistol with a proper hammer and a 2.5 inch barrel. That works in a lot of different circumstances and it’s a high price, high spec pistol.

Police Still Use These

It is also one of the few revolver models LEOs still rely on, if they can afford it. But they generally go for a 4 inch barrel service pistol or a long range 6 inch barrel cannon and sometimes pine for blued stainless. You can order a Smith & Wesson Performance Center Po Series model with almost any barrel, to tell you the truth. Check these heavy duty, heavy barrel hunting revolvers for proof…

You get a medium frame with a proper hammer and a super crisp and precise action, as well as a long and safe double. You also get a smooth cylinder, low drag sights and a tapered barrel.

I would switch out that adjustable rear sight for something less snaggy. I mean who needs an adjustable rear sight on a gun this size? But the rest of this Smith and Wesson custom revolver is just about perfect.

You can get the Smith and Wesson Performance Center Pro Series model with a longer barrel that comes with all the benefits of reduced recoil and improved durability and accuracy.

The Model 60 Performance Center Pro Series is a great gun from a legendary firearms manufacturing company that you may want to consider as your new revolver.

23. Ruger Vaquero

• Price: $1,581.99
• Caliber: 357 Magnum revolver
• Barrel: 4.62 inch
• Total: 10.25 inch
• Weight: 2.69lb
• Capacity: 6

The Ruger Vaquero is a 357 Mag revolver that well heeled old cowboys might have carried inside their jacket. Well, it would have been if it wasn’t introduced in 1993.

The Ruger Vaquero pays homage to guns of times gone by, though, and is based on the Blackhawk. So now you can choose between the original and the Ruger New Vaquero.

Then think about grip options. Ruger’s Western-style grip is considered one of the most natural shooting options out there. But you have to decide on a Bisley, or not.

Ruger uses a transfer bar mechanism and loading gate interlock help prevent accidental discharges and these Ruger Vaqueros considered among the best 357 Magnum Revolvers for a reason.

We love the stainless revolver, but it is more money. A lot of folks like the Vaquero blued revolver like the old school six shooters. And that is a lot cheaper…

24. Ruger SP101

• Price: $654.99
• Barrel: 3 inch
• Total: 7.5 inch
• Weight: 2.13lb
• Caliber: 7

The Ruger SP101 is another DAO revolver that manages to pack high performance into a budget package.

It isn’t a cheap revolver, but the best-selling Ruger is a real quality double action revolver at an affordable price point. Thank you Sturm Ruger, you get us…

The Ruger SP101 comes with a patented grip frame design, triple locking cylinder, cushioned grips and easy takedown. This stainless steel handgun has a finish that should take a beating, too, which is important in a mid-range shooting gun.

It is no safe queen, so the best 357 Magnum revolver has to stand the test of time. This brushed stainless revolver does, don’t worry…

25. Charter Arms Mag Pug

• Price: $439.99
• Barrel: 2.2 inch
• Total: 6.7 inch
• Weight: 1.44lb
• Rounds: 5

The Charter Arms Mag Pug is a budget conscious carry gun that offers five rounds and a much lower price tag than some here. It’s a 357 Mag revolver for every man.

This snub nose small frame carry pistol is elegant, relatively light and it stashes inside an IWB holster. You get a quality Hogue monogrip and that cushioned rubber really helps squash the magnum’s recoil.

So the company has done good work to fit a lot of power into such a heavy duty small package for the best concealed carry gun. We approve of this revolver chambered in 357, both the stainless revolver and the blued revolver.

26. Cimarron Frontier Pre War

• Price: $589.99
• Barrel Length: 2.2 inch
• Total: 6.7 inch
• Weight: 1.44lb
• Rounds: 5

The Cimarron Frontier is a pretty faithful replica of the old world Colts and comes with a case hardened steel frame.

It’s an attractive gun and a new addition here. So be nice, and buy one…

Check out These Posts For More Power

If you want more power for your home defense needs, then check out these posts.

• 17 of the Best 44 Magnum Handguns in the World
• The best Hunting Handguns
• The Most Powerful Handguns in the World. Pure stopping power.

44 Magnum revolvers are a big step up and that’s when you get into the large frame revolvers and 230 grain bullet loads.

But make sure you’ve got your shooting technique down with the best 357 Magnum revolvers, or even 38 Special revolvers chambered with less venom. 357 Magnum rounds place more demands on you at the shooting range and in real life.

27. Magnum Research Desert Eagle Mark XIX

• Price: $1,800 +
• Caliber: 357 Mag
• Barrel length: 6 inch
• Total: 10.75 inch
• Weight: 4.55lb
• Capacity: 9+1

Now we know the Magnum Research Desert Eagle Mark XIX is a semi-automatic and categorically not a revolver.

But the semi-auto pistol is a viable option these days for the home or even medium sized game hunting with a solid 158 grain bullet and that 6 inch barrel.

Of course the original semi auto handgun was a comic book monster thanks to its status as the most famous 50 Caliber pistol in the world. That is fun and looks right at home in the hands of Deadpool et al. But seriously, the full power version is not right semi-auto for most of us.

Now, though, Magnum Research has expanded the semi-automatic range and reduced the firepower to include the likes of the 44 Magnum, and this, the 357. Not only has that created a viable alternative for 357 Sig owners, it has also turned this into a much more compelling handgun and it’s even turning up in shooting events.

Less Power, More Control…

Reducing the recoil by a lot, and the muzzle energy by quite a bit, has turned this into a usable defensive pistol. In the home, or Alaska, there’s a place for this semi-auto now. Just pull the trigger and see.

There’s also a wide range of ammo to choose from at prices that won’t hurt quite as much as the full power 50 Cal semi auto pistols.

And the stopping power of a full mag of tightly grouped 357 is going to be better than what most of us could achieve under pressure with the full fat gun. Especially with red dot sights up top.

So before you pull the trigger, take a look at the semi-automatic Magnum Research Desert Eagle XIX. In this caliber, you might just like this wildcard entry. And the compensator will help you with long range shot placement, as well as looking thoroughly John Wick esque…

You can buy everything from a blued stainless gun to a gold version with tiger stripes and a compensator and they’re all ready for optics, scopes and lasers. There are different barrel lengths, all kinds of options, and you should really check out the new DE357.

28. Bond Arms Roughneck

• Price: $285.99
• Caliber: 357 Mag
• Barrel length: 2.5 inch
• Weight: 2.2lb
• Capacity: 2

Again, you’ll notice this isn’t a revolver at all. but the stainless steel Bond Arms Derringer is kind of fun. It’s a small pistol, too.

I mean it’s two rounds, in a 2.2lb gun, with a 2.5 inch barrel. Technically these are hopeless carry guns. But nobody buys a Derringer for cutting edge technology. You buy it just because you want one and they’re part of the history of the United States.

A Derringer also makes a surprise appearance in John Wick 3, alongside other oddities.

This Bond Arms Roughneck is a cheap example that should do everything you want and scratch that Derringer itch. Bond Arms has a great selection of them, too, and you can see more here.

Where to Buy 357 Magnum Ammo

You can get a vast range of ammo. That includes advanced full metal jacket hollow point bullets that create intense terminal ballistics and wound channel characteristics that work for hunting and personal defense. For stopping power, you’re going to struggle to beat those.

Then there are resin tipped competition, soft point and other bullets for sport shooting. Hornady Critical Defense, Sig Sauer Elite Performance, Federal Premium HammerDown, Federal American Eagle and more are 357 Magnum ammunition that should give you top class performance. Look out for Speer Gold Dot and CCI too.

We have come a long way since Elmer Keith handloaded the 38 Special cartridge well beyond accepted limits to create the first 357 Magnum. Elmer Keith then went on to cement his place in firearms manufacturer folklore with the 44 Magnum, too.

Let’s Talk Bullets…

Bullet weight, bullet diameter and structure have turned into an art and a science and the arms race when it comes to this and, well, every other pistol caliber if we are honest. The 357 sees active service on the hunt, as a defensive round and as a long range shooter. So if you’re looking for a hollow point, soft point, whatever, then you’re probably well catered for.

Our favorite handgun ammo and rifle ammo suppliers include:

• Lucky Gunner – Great bulk ammo deals in every caliber and weight. Cheap reloads for the gun range through to the best jacketed hollow point ammo, rimfire ammo etc. Gift cards available.
• Sportsman’s Guide – Large jacketed hollow point, soft point, Hornady Critical Defense, American Gunner, Buffalo Bore, Terminal Performance, Speer Gold Dot and lots more. Bullet weight options that will make your head spin. Gun cleaning kits too. Great pistols and revolvers chambered in a variety of ammo, rimfire ammo.
• Palmetto State Armory – Hollow point, soft point, full metal jacket and Barnes Expander options. Buffalo Bore, Terminal Performance and other big names. Buy guns too, on your credit card if you’re reckless, and speed loaders.

Remember to organize the price low to high to find the real bargains.

Other Big Bore Options

These 357 magnum cartridge centerfire revolvers are expensive, there’s no way round it. But if you want to achieve big power on a budget, like you’ve got a gift card or something, then look at single shot pistols and more.

A single shot pistol would make a weird revolver, though. No firearms manufacturer is that good and you’re better off looking for a break action. There are a lot of break action pistols out there and some of them really are good these days for shooting sports and hunting.

Lever action pistols are available in all kinds of big calibers. Henry Mare’s Leg Lever Action pistol is a tribute to the cut down rifles law makers turned to in Wild West firefights. This is arguably the missing link between pistols and long guns.

Really it looks like a chopped Henry’s Repeating Arms rifle and can come chambered for 44 Magnum, too. You can even put a red dot on there. Or period correct rifle scopes from one of your long guns.

Slip it into scabbard style gun cases and it is the ultimate zombie apocalypse gun.

You can buy that wonderful creation here.

But if you’re looking for long guns then you have some truly intriguing calibers waiting for you. You don’t need 357 Mag long guns…

Also look into double stack 45 ACP guns, handguns, 9mm Luger semi-automatic pistol options and more. Organize the price low to high to check for bargains.

Always check your gun laws, too, and product registration restrictions, before you buy guns online with gun cases. Some States just aren’t as cool. California and New York, we’re looking at you.

Buy gun cases as well, to protect your new investment.

Black Powder 50 Cal is Not 50 BMG

Black powder especially is a big bore option, but don’t be fooled into thinking you’ll get the same power as an actual 50 BMG rifle from this stuff. Or the shot placement.

So have a look at our stock before you find a store near you in the United States and start shopping for 50 Cal rifles at Academy Sports outdoors section. Don’t do that, by the way, Academy Sports Outdoors isn’t the place for 50 BMG rifles.

We got firearms, handguns, bolt-action rifles, just about everything for you down at the good ol’ USA Gun Shop. You want a bolt-action pistol? A Scout rifle? A Smith & Wesson M&P Shield? And gun accessories, relaoding supplies and gun sights. We got the best deals!

What about handgun ammo, rifle ammo and shotgun ammo? Gun cases are pretty hard to find these days, especially handgun ammo. 9mm is like gold-dust, but we have our sources. Check here for the best place to buy 9mm and rifle ammo in the Covid 19 crisis. Buy a gun online too. The best pistols, revolvers, muzzle devices and more are all on the internet.

What About a Smaller 22 Revolver?

357 Ammo is expensive, so if you’re plinking at the range then what about a 22 revolver to go with that big gun sir, or Madam?

You can get a full size Model 686 Plus Deluxe if you like and the best from Ruger and Smith & Wesson. But the Ruger Wrangler is a hot property in the 22LR revolver world. You get a solid little Wild West gun for around $200 and the Ruger Wrangler should last a long time.

I have gun cases that cost more than that.

Heritage Rough Rider is a Fun Gun

Or you can spend like $100 and get your cowboy rocks off with a Heritage Rough Rider.

Now the Heritage Rough Rider started out as a basic six shooter, maybe in an unloved corner of Walmart. But it has evolved into a weird cult classic and a whole range of pistols, revolvers etc.

You can get a short barrel blued revolver that is allegedly designed for a barkeep’s boot, but in the end formed part of the LEO and criminal arsenal more often than not. And a 16 inch barrel sniper version of the Heritage Rough Rider stainless revolver.

Why? because they’re cheap and you can buy a gun online now.

• Full line of Heritage Rough Rider pistols & revolvers at Palmetto State Armory.

What did the old time police use?

The.38 Smith & Wesson Special CTG blued revolver with its fixed sights is still a legend, even though most law enforcement officers are happy they no longer have to rely on that kind of hardware.

You can still find the old 38 Smith & Wesson Special for sale on the used guns site and at auction. The 38 S&W Special was basically standard issue in for police, sherriffs, everybody really, from the 1920s to the 1990s in some cases.

9mm pistols slowly took over and the limited capacity of wheelguns means they’re fading out. But some cops still carry a revolver that at least owes its existence to the 38 Smith & Wesson Special.

The actual .38 S&W Cartridge was unleashed on the world in 1898. A development of the Long Colt, the only difference between the 38 Short Colt, 38 Long Colt and 357 Magnum is the case length. That means these revolvers can adapt to the ammo available. Which is kind of a modern touch in an old fossil like this.

Smith and Wesson produced a number of smash hit revolvers around this basic recipe. And the 38. S&W Special deserves its place in the Hall of Fame. If you shoot 38 Special, you probably agree.

Other classics include the Ruger Security 6, which still pops up from time to time on the used sales lists. If you see a Ruger Security 6, maybe buy it.

Where to Buy Gun Parts Online

Wheelguns are pretty low maintenance, but you still need gun parts now and again, as well as gun cases. So where are the best places for gun parts online? Try our favorite gun parts suppliers:

• Brownells – Gun parts galore.

Other Stuff We Can Sell You

This is blatant plug time. It is what it is. We can probably sell you knives, tools, accessories, optics, credit card guns, rifles, shotguns, all that. Even air guns that shoot arrows. No shit, seriously.

We got normal bolt action rifles, shotguns and handguns too. Natch.

I mean things like speed loaders could be useful for revolvers, too. In fact yeah, speed loaders are important, more so than gun cleaning kits, so here’s a link for them as well.

• The Best AR-15s for $500 and up. Ruger, Smith & Wesson model, Radical.
• The best AR-15s for $1000. Get a great gun
• Get the best Glock of 2023 here.
• The World’s most powerful handguns, pistols, revolvers etc

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