These are the kinds of questions the spark religious wars. 357 Magnum vs. 45 ACP: Is One Truly Better Than the Other?
The 357 Magnum vs. 45 ACP argument is a great way to send firearm forums and gun shops into an uproar. I've fired both cartridges for many years and certainly have my preference, though I'll set it aside for the sake of objectivity. As you continue reading this article, you will gain the knowledge to determine which cartridge is better for self-defense, target shooting, hunting, and your overall shooting experience.
This is a pretty good comparison of the ballistics of the 2 cartridges. While I do like 357 magnum, I also like 45 ACP.
That's not the only difference, though. The two cartridges have different bullet and case dimensions, resulting in different ballistic performance. The 45 ACP is typically loaded with a heavier bullet, but the 357 Mag has a longer case and higher maximum pressure.
Various bits of ballistic data is included. Click thru.
Probably the biggest difference between the two is control ability. Without a lot of practice 357 is harder to control.
ReplyDeleteMost of my revolvers are large chunks of steel. Makes it easier.
DeleteI keep meaning to buy a Chiappa Rhino - the revolver that shoots from the bottom of the cylinder instead of the top... but I haven't. Maybe for my birthday next year. (Supposed to drastically reduce perceived recoil)