More shooters handload the .38 Special and .357 Magnum than any other handgun cartridges, despite the .38 being 108 years old. Even the “young” .357 celebrates three-quarters of a century this year. They’re lumped together, of course, because they’re also the oldest pair of popular “short and long” centerfire revolver rounds. One of the reasons the .357 is so popular is everything from mild to thumper loads can be easily purchased or made.

Yet, the two rounds also allow for a certain degree of specialization. A light, short-barreled .38 is still very popular for concealed carry, despite the recent boom in small autoloaders. A small revolver is simpler and easier to use (and maintain) than any auto, and the .38 Special is also more powerful than the .380, the largest practical round for a small auto. At the other end of the spectrum, a heavier .357 is very accurate at any practical iron-sighted handgun range, and powerful enough for serious self-defense, whether in cities or the wilderness, as well as deer hunting.

>> Click Here << To Read More Handloading