The 357 Magnum was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1935 and initially chambered in their heavy-frame double-action revolver, the 357 was the first "magnum" handgun. Based on the 38 Special case lengthened to 1.29 inches, it was the world's most powerful handgun cartridge until the 44 Magnum. Offering considerably more power and penetration than the 38 Special, it was standard among many law enforcement agencies for decades. It is still widely manufactured in double- and single-action revolvers (and some rifles), available from virtually all revolver manufacturers; and all manufacturers of handgun ammunition offer a variety of 357 Magnum loads. It is a common choice for personal defense, and 357 revolvers have the advantage of handling less expensive and lighter-recoiling 38 Special loads for practice. As a hunting cartridge the 357 Magnum is probably the lightest cartridge that should be considered for deer-sized game. — Craig Boddington

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