Simple. Reliable. Powerful. Effective. Tested. Proven.
Each of the six rounds you place in a .357 Magnum revolver delivers some of the best performance from a handgun.
Its bare-bones design and easy-to-use mechanism make it perfect for beginners. The utility of the .357 Magnum round makes it just as pleasing for experienced shooters.
Considering the diverse ammunition loads available, it is easy to find one that works for you.
But with plenty of options on the market, that doesn’t always mean that selecting a gun is easy…but that’s why we’re here to help.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite .357 Magnum revolver models based on features and value, so keep reading to see what we recommend!
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Woods-Carry .357
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Editor's Pick
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Best High-End .357
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Best High-Capacity .357
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Best Medium-Frame .357
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Best Concealed Carry .357
Table of Contents
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Why You Should Trust Us
Input into this article came from the PPT editorial team and our writers. Together we have a combined shooting experience of 30+ years, including instruction, competition, and multiple shooting disciplines.
We’ve spent countless hours researching and analyzing guns and gear to determine which is the best when it comes to features, reliability, ergonomics, and bang for your buck.
We had to make some tough calls. If you don’t see your favorite revolver, it doesn’t mean we hate it, just that we couldn’t include it this time.
What is the .357 Magnum Cartridge?
The .357 Magnum cartridge is a revolver round with a .357-inch bullet diameter. It was first introduced in 1934 and serves as the foundation of the “Magnum Era.”
Then, as now, everyone wanted more powerful ammo. This ammo has diverse use ranging from target shooting to self-defense and hunting.
The round is based on the earlier Smith & Wesson .38 Special cartridge and was first designed with a 158-grain semi-jacketed soft point (flat) bullet.
Since more of the bullet’s mass is outside the cartridge, there is more room for powder in the cartridge.
The 158-grain semi-jacketed soft point bullet permits the quicker transfer of energy, which enables the bullet to do more damage.
Aside from being much more powerful, the .357 Magnum round also needed a 1/8-inch longer case to hold more gunpowder.
This longer case makes it impossible to load a .357 Magnum round in .38 Special revolvers. The extra length prevents the revolver’s cylinder from closing and locking into place.
Check out our picks for the best .38 Special & .357 Magnum ammo for home defense, target shooting, and hunting.
Best .357 Magnum Revolvers
1. Smith & Wesson Model 60 .357 Magnum
The Model 60 is a 5-shot DA/SA stainless steel “J” frame revolver.
It has a 2.125-inch underlug barrel and exposed hammer with black synthetic grips that wear well.
This gun opts for a front blade sight and fixed rear sight. All in all, it’s an excellent concealed-carry revolver if you want a lot of firepower in a small package.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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2. Ruger Model SP-101
The SP-101 is a 5-shot DA/SA .357 Magnum available in stainless steel or blued finishes.
The 2.25-inch and 3-inch models offer synthetic black grips, front ramp sight, and fixed rear sight. Ruger also offers a 4.2-inch model that sports a fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight.
Personally, I like the stainless steel version since it handles moisture better than blued steel.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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3. Ruger GP-100
The Ruger GP-100 is a 6 or 7-shot .357 Magnum revolver with a DA/SA medium frame revolver.
It is available in blued and stainless steel finishes and a variety of barrel lengths — with the 4.2-inch and 6-inch offerings being the most popular.
I prefer the 4-inch underlug barrel, adjustable rear sight, and ramp front sight. Additional features include black Hogue grips and an exposed hammer.
The GP-100 is heavier and larger than the SP101, but it helps to stabilize the gun and control recoil.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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What do you think of the Ruger GP-100? Rate it below!
4. Manurhin MR73 Sport
The Manurhin MR73 is a 6-shot .357 Magnum revolver that is available in barrel lengths between 4 and 8 inches with a deep blue finish.
Developed for use by French police and Special Weapons and Tactics units and fielded by the French GIGN, the accuracy and durability of this revolver are legendary.
The gun features a fully adjustable rear sight, match trigger, and is completely hand-fitted to exacting tolerances.
Although extremely expensive, the MR73 is regarded by many as the finest .357 magnum revolver ever made.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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5. Smith & Wesson Model 627 Pro Series
The S&W 627 Pro is an 8-shot .357 Magnum DA/SA.
It is a stainless steel “N” large-frame revolver with a 4-inch custom underlug barrel. This gun is also quite stylish with an 8-round fluted cylinder and choice of black synthetic or wood grips.
The Model 627 also brings a large trigger and hammer and adjustable rear sight with a gold bead front sight.
It handles .357 Magnum ammunition very well, and you will feel little recoil when firing. Another advantage…you can choose to load this gun using an 8-round moon clip.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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6. Colt King Cobra
The King Cobra is a medium-frame 6-shot revolver with a 3-inch barrel, sporting a brushed stainless steel finish.
It features a fixed rear sight, brass bead front sight, and Hogue Overmolded rubber grips.
While heavier than the standard Colt Cobra, the extra weight helps tame the recoil of the .357 Magnum cartridge and increases service life.
The grips, barrel length, weight, and good DA/SA trigger make this revolver very balanced and pleasant to shoot without being unwieldy.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Check out our review of the King Cobra or view what others think about the Cobra over on our Pew Pew Meter Page!
Rating score
7. Colt .357 Magnum Python
Rereleased in 2020, the Colt Python made its return as a 6-shot DA/SA revolver with a high-polish stainless steel finish.
Currently, the 2020 Python is available in either 3-, 4.25-, or 6-inch configurations.
The Python also has a ventilated top rib and a full underlug to protect the ejection rod. You also get match-grade wood grips and adjustable sights.
I have found the weight of the Python ideal for stabilizing the recoil of the .357 Magnum. Not to mention, the gun is devilishly handsome.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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8. Kimber K6s
A relative newcomer in comparison to some of these models, the Kimber K6s comes in a few different models — with the main two being the standard K6s (Double-action only) and the DASA (exposed hammer).
Barrel lengths differ based on which model but most float between 2 and 4 inches.
Billed as the lightest 6-shot revolver, the K6s weighs in at around 23 ounces. If you’re looking for a high-quality concealed-carry revolver…this is it.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Be sure to read all about the K6s in our review!
Small, Medium, Large Frame: Which One is Right for Me?
Let’s talk a little about the various frame sizes you can expect to see when shopping…
Small Frame Revolvers
These revolvers are easy to conceal in a holster, purse, or fanny pack.
Their size also makes them easy to draw and bring to bear quickly. Small frame revolvers usually weigh between 12 ounces and 2 pounds when empty.
For small frame revolvers, I don’t recommend always shooting heavy-loaded .357 Magnum ammo.
It’s possible to wear out or break important parts of the revolver under these loads. For general target practice, shoot .38 Special ammo.
To simulate the carry .357 Magnum ammo, use .38 Special +P or low velocity .357 Magnum ammo.
Medium Framed Revolvers
These revolvers usually weigh between 20 and 40 ounces unloaded.
You can carry them concealed easily with a 4-inch barrel if you wear loose clothes, and they also conceal well in a fanny pack.
As with the small frame revolvers, I prefer DA/SA trigger action and stainless steel.
Steel is a little heavier, and better controls .357 Magnum’s recoil. You will get better accuracy in rapid-fire on the second and third shots.
For these guns, I still recommend using .38 Special ammunition for practice — lead round nose or FMJ.
Practice with light .357 Magnum ammunition to simulate heavier loads. Before you quit shooting for the day, shoot at least two cylinders of your defensive ammo.
Large Frame Revolvers
These revolvers weigh between 25 to 60 ounces empty.
While these guns are powerful, their large size and heavy weight make them harder to conceal. Printing is a challenge.
On the plus side, these guns can handle large amounts of heavily loaded .357 Magnum ammunition.
You can also shoot for extended time periods without feeling recoil discomfort.
For target practice, I still recommend using .38 Special ammo to save money. Use some practice time to shoot mid-range .357 Magnum ammo and finish with a few “hot” defensive rounds.
History of .357 Magnum Revolver
The development of the .357 Magnum cartridge was shepherded by some of the most brilliant minds of the era.
While there are plenty of .357 models and companies that produce them, a few gun makers immediately stand out...
Smith & Wesson
The Smith & Wesson company first started in Norwich, Connecticut, in 1852. But the company’s first .357 Magnum revolvers wouldn’t show up until 1934.
In 1957, Smith & Wesson began using its famous model numbering system.
The .357 Magnum revolver was then known as the Model 27, built on an “N” frame. The “N” frame is the largest frame used for the S&W .357 Magnum revolvers.
Smith & Wesson’s lighter “K” frame Model 19 was released in 1957 — developed to meet the special needs of law enforcement.
Some private citizens still use K Frames for self-defense, target shooting, and hunting, but they’re pretty obsolete.
You can also find some “L Frame” revolvers that are somewhere between the “K” and the “N” in frame size.
Finally, there’s the J Frame…probably one of the most popular styles of revolvers.
There are three revolvers types in this series — Chief’s Special, original Bodyguard, and the Centennial.
Sturm, Ruger, & Co. Inc.
This company is well known for .22 caliber pistols and rifles that shoot centerfire and rimfire ammo.
But they are also famous for shotguns and the .357 Magnum DA/SA, DA only, and SA Revolvers.
In 1972, Ruger introduced the Ruger Security-Six, Service-Six, and Speed-Six Revolvers for law enforcement, civilian self-defense, and military markets. The GP-100, Redhawk, and SP-101 would later follow.
Ruger also manufactures .357 Magnum revolvers, including the Blackhawk and the Vaquero.
The Vaquero is a retro-style revolver that was made for cowboy action shooting fans and looks like the old Colt Single Action Army Revolver of 1873.
Colt Manufacturing Company
One of Colt’s most famous revolvers is the 1873 Colt Single Action Army in the Colt .45 caliber.
It was popular with the public and used in the U.S. military from 1873 to 1892. You probably also know it as the gun that won the West.
Final Thoughts
When selecting a .357 Magnum revolver, keep in mind frame size and capacity so you can be sure to pick the one that’s perfect for you.
There are a ton of revolver models floating around the market, and most are solid. These happen to be some of our favorites.
What are your favorite models? Let us know in the comments below. To see what we recommend feeding your revolver, check out the Best .357 Magnum Ammo.
203 Leave a Reply
I have an older S&W model 10 .38 spl. that I've had for over 45 years. I really enjoy shooting that gun, it's just fun. I also own a RUGER gp100 .357 4". I really like shooting it also, even with heavy mag. loads. I'm planning on getting a 6" model for fun and a hunting side arm. I just like shooting revolvers.
What is the value of a ruger blackhawk 357 magnum. Never been shot.
Manure-in and Kimber are not good. From my experience having to repeatedly return a Kimber revolver and take it to gunsmiths is reality. Manurin is a waste of money because a standard Smith & Wesson outperforms it and it's cheaper (not to mention Ruger).
Hello, missed the S&W 586/686 (plus) or 3-5-7 version of .357 Mag Revolvers in your posts. As well as 8'' .357 versions of S&W Revolvers. Just to mention, I've won this year actual a "Revolver King" competition in Sitzerland, consisting from 1x50m and 2x25m competitions with a S&W 3-5-7 Revolver with 7'' barrel and 7 shots capacity. This Revolver shoots even better than a Korth Revolver which is one of the most precise craftet Revolvers ever. But otherwise very nice article from you guys.
Ich finde S&W Ruger und Taurus als die idealsten, 357 Magnum-Revolver. Als Besitzer eines S&W 60 38 Spezial mit 2 Zoll-Lauf, wollte ich als 357 Magnum, natürlich einen S&W. Ich liebäugelte stark mit einem M 66 oder M 686. Beide Modelle halte ich für stabile und präzise Revolver. 1985 kam der Ruger GP 100 auf dem Markt dessen Griff und solide Konstruktion, mehr überzeugte als S&W. Nun habe ich diesen Stainless-Revolver mit 4 Zoll-Lauf seit 1990 und würde ihn, nicht mehr hergeben. Mein Fazit : Qualitativ sind S&W und Ruger ebenbürtig, betreffend Abzugscharakteristik ist S&W überlegen, hingegen ist Ruger robuster.
I like my SW 686+,thank you.
You failed to mention Freedom Arms revolvers and the BFR, both of which are American made and are top of the line. I will take an FA over a Korth or the French revolver any day. Buy American!
I kind of would have expected the L-comp or Carry-comp to have made it on here?
Ofcause the best one is the 686SSR, but I may be partial.
On the MR73, it ticks like a clockwork and the DA pull is amazing, fantastic finish as well.
Going on 40+ years now, my favorite .357 is my S&W Model 19 sporting a 6" barrel and a customized cut-down combat grip. It has never had a problem with any ammo, commercial or personal production. And it gets a lot of interest at the range.
Well as a certified NRA firearms instructor, former police officer and former competition shooter with 62 years of shooting and 47 years of instruction under my belt I agree the S&W 19 is a great gun , no complaints here. However for me my favorite wheel gun is my Colt Python 6in with a trigger job and custom grip made for my huge hands. Bobby Mcghee
Mr. Mcghee, I respect your credentials and experience. I will be 78 next month and I grew up shooting revolvers from age 6. My EDC handgun is a semi-auto, 9mm Walther PDP Compact and have carried Sig, H&K, and Walther PPQ's. The two guns I have really enjoyed shooting for fun are my friend's Colt Python (older vintage) and my new Colt Python with 4.25 inch barrel. I coach other shooters at my range and do not disparage others because they have a different preference than I but I am grateful that a person with your knowledge and experience find the Colt Python breed so rewarding.
Bobby Mcghee- I agree with a Colt Python w/trigger job. I ❤️ my PYTHON! However, there is one BETTER!! Have you ever tried the Colt Grizzly .357? It's the same as the infamous PYTHON but, get this........ it's ported! Sweet shooting gun!
P.S.- If you are interested, I have one for sale.......
I have a Taurus tracker and maybe I’m lucky ,shoots as well as the smiths and Rutgers I have had plus a 7 th round.
I am a fan of .357 revolvers. My first was the Kimber D6S 3", followed by the Ruger GP 100 4.25" I have since added these: Taurus 627 and 608
All good guns I believe in this article, however it was still a disappointment.
Budget revolvers seem to have been left out of the review cycle here?
Weirauch comes to mind. There are others.
You can find them, if you look for them.
Nothing wrong with a 627 Taurus Tracker, .357, holds 7, with the 6.5" bbl, for those on a stiff budget for a home defense gun or packing for a hike in bear country. Just got one in satin stainless (8-2023) for $458 and there is absolutely nothing wrong with it.
I have the Taurus 627 and its bigger brother the Taurus 608. These are definitely good home defense or trail guns.
I would love to get a Smith and Wesson .357 magnum all-steel revolver. Except for one thing - I do not want the trigger lock. I'll stick with Ruger.
Lots of used Smiths out there. Pretty easy to find a good one (Model 686, Model 28, et al) for less than a new Ruger.
I don't care for the trigger lock either. My guns are in the safe, unlocked, and the keys to the locks are in the gun cases, comfortably in the closet. I have the 686, Model 27 and Model 19 among other brands.
SP-101 DA for me. Very easy to carry and 5 round speed loaders make it a snap to reload quickly if needed.
My favorite is my S&W Model 19. Hefty enough to manage the recoil but light enough to carry in a chest rig all day.
The Model 19 is a nice revolver. I picked mine up a couple of months ago. I took it to the range once or twice. It may be going back again soon.
Sounds like a S&W advertisement. I have a Taurus 66 in stainless and it has served me faithfully on my side while hunting with Underwood 180-grain hard case bullets that do well to keep me outside a bear's belly. More are out there than high-priced safe queens to get the job done.
My very first pistol I bought, was a S&W Model 66 4" Combat Magnum in 1978. It was an excellent gun. I sold it to a relative in the 90s, and have kicked myself for that bit of stupidity. Currently, I' e a Interarms Virginia Dragoon SAA in .357, but I'd like to get another DA/SA. Being retired and on a budget, it's going to be a while in this Biden Economy.
Did you forget basic physics here? Short barreled .357's are like a castrated bull...fun to look at, but otherwise worthless. The forte of the .357 is blinding speed and you only get that from a four inch or preferably longer barrel. Manurhin sounds like manure. Four grand for a frog wheelgun? The Colt Python is the heavyweight champ (except for the 3" barrel model), total class all around.
This is complete unmitigated BULLSH*T. #1 The Python isn't even on the lsist #2 the list includes the budget Coplt King Cobra but not the Python? 33 rated according to the title by "Stopping Power?" Comparing the same caliber guns for "stopping power" is absolutely brain dead.
Reviews I've read on the King Cobra sounds like Colt's got some QC issues on that line.
When the Honest Outlaw says they're crap, they are crap.
I'm getting Taurus model 66 4". I've heard the old knocks on Taurus guns but I believe that things are a changing. This particular model also has a 7 round wheelhouse. Did I use wheelhouse correctly?
That's all from me.
Gotta love 357 in a good frame! I have a Security Six that I like and a K6s 3" DASA that I love. The Ruger is HD, the Kimber camping and trail. The Kimber is also cold weather CC. I just can't say enough good about the Kimber, sweet!
Used a S&W 6" 686 for years in U.S.P.S.A matches even had a compensator milled in it, the hotter the load the less the muzzle would rise. Think big Magnaports and alot of fun lol. The one thing that I did notice was about 99% of the competitors used S&W revolvers, could be how easily it was to make a very nice trigger pull or because of the way the cylinder was unlocked for faster reloads. But switched to a Model 25 45 acp to be able to use moon clips. Fast forward to today and it's a 627 8 rndr with moon clips. The only thing that I regret in hindsight is 35 years ago having a custom trigger and hammer job done on the Mod. 25 after seeing how much the value has gone up and it's not original. But man what a smooooth double action trigger.
"Since more of the bullet’s mass is outside the cartridge, there is more room for powder in the cartridge." NO!!! The case is longer for more powder! The bullets used in 38 SP and 357 Mag are externally the same dimensions. Internal construction can differ depending on the type of bullet and purpose. I manufactured ammo for over a decade commercially.
No, the case was made longer to prevent loading in a 38 special. You can load enough bullseye in a 38 special case to blow just about any 357…extra powder room is not needed or required.
I’ve owned a Ruger GP-100 since the late 80’s-first handgun I ever purchased and 100% agree with your points on the gun and versatile ammo options in general. Thanks for the informative charts on the S&W models and I’ll have to check out their 8 round revolver that I didn’t know existed!
forgot the S&W 19.
Indeed! The S&W model 19 and SS version 66 was/is one of the best law enforcement sidearms of all time. And the 2&1/2” barrel version is considered by myself and many knowledgeable handguners to be the best all round snub nose .357 ever. They are incredibly accurate with 38 loads as well…almost target level.
I own 2 S&W 19's and a S&W 66. All are great guns that have had trigger jobs and have the smoothest action of any revolver I'm aware of on the market. I also have a 29 and a 69. The 69 just can not be made to be as smooth as the earlier K and N frame guns. S&W changed the lockworks to the detriment of the gun.
I think you forgot about Taurus just like a publication like this the only put up the front most popular names. It's a shame and you're not doing anyone a service. I will no longer be reading any of your articles.
Well said James.
What about the Chiapas Rhino? If price is of no concern nor is nationality, how could the Rhino be left out?
I think the Chiappa Rhino is an interesting pistol. I would definitely like to shoot one before I buy one.
You missed the Ruger LCRx, with 3" barrel is 1/4# lighter than the K6. My service arm was a Ruger Security 6. Only recently replaced with a Security 9.
I own 4 357s, SW Model 19- SW Model 686§+1, SW Model 586 Distinguished Combat Magnum and a Model 66. My favorite is the 686! Strong and very accurate. Definitely a 357 fan.