.38 Special vs .357 Magnum
Typical factory loads side by side: speed, energy, BC, twist, range and what each one is built for.
The short answer
With typical loads, the .357 Magnum is about 440 ft/s faster at the muzzle (800 vs 1,235 ft/s).
The .357 Magnum carries about 138% more energy at the muzzle (535 vs 225 ft-lbs), which usually also means more recoil.
On the same size target, the .357 Magnum has the longer point-blank range (116 yd), so you can hold dead-on a bit farther without adjusting.
Side by side
| .38 Special | .357 Magnum | |
|---|---|---|
| Made for | Classic revolver round for police, self-defense and target shooting. Mild recoil; also fires in any .357 Magnum. | Lengthened .38 Special at much higher pressure. Self-defense, deer and hogs at short range from a 6" revolver. |
| Typical load | 158 grlead round nose · 4" barrel | 158 grJHP · 6" barrel |
| Muzzle speed | 800 ft/s | 1,235 ft/s |
| Muzzle energy | 225 ft-lbs | 535 ft-lbs |
| Typical BC (G1) | ≈ 0.15typical, varies by brand | ≈ 0.16typical, varies by brand |
| Twist rate | 1:18.75 | 1:18.75 |
| Practical range | 25 yd | 50 yd deer/hog |
| Point-blank range | 81 yd6" vital zone | 116 yd6" vital zone |
| Recommended platform | Any steel-frame revolverMild; stout in ultralight snubbies | Steel revolver, 4" barrel+Harsh in light snubbies; shoot .38s in those |
Which one fits you?
.38 Special: Classic revolver round for police, self-defense and target shooting. Mild recoil; also fires in any .357 Magnum.
.357 Magnum: Lengthened .38 Special at much higher pressure. Self-defense, deer and hogs at short range from a 6" revolver.
For most hunters, the right pick is the one you can shoot accurately and comfortably, in a rifle that fits how you hunt. Good shot placement and a bullet built for your game matter more than small differences on paper.
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Speed, energy and BC are typical figures for the listed load; real numbers vary by brand, lot and barrel length. Always check the ammo maker's data for your exact load.