Why Shooters Choose .357 Magnum
The 357 magnum is one of the most versatile revolver rounds you can buy because it hits hard and any 357 revolver also fires 38 Special. That means you can practice cheap with mild 38 loads and carry full-power 357 mag when it counts. It's why the round has stayed popular for decades, from cops and hunters to first-time buyers.
We stock 357 revolvers in everything from snub nose to 6-inch barrels, and you can test-fire one on our indoor range before you commit. If you want even more punch, compare it against a 44 magnum revolver, or look at a classic 45 colt revolver for a softer, big-bore feel.
Snub Nose, Mid-Size, or Full-Size
357 revolvers come in three main barrel lengths, and the right one depends on whether you're carrying it, keeping it by the bed, or shooting it at the range. Barrel length affects how easy the gun is to hide, how much recoil you feel, and how much velocity you get out of the round.
| Type | Barrel | Capacity | Best for |
| Snub nose | 1.875"–2.25" | 5 rounds | Concealed carry, backup |
| Mid-size | 3"–4" | 6 rounds | Do-it-all carry and home defense |
| Full-size | 5"–6"+ | 6–7 rounds | Range, hunting, target work |
Short barrels carry easy but kick harder and lose some speed and capacity. Longer barrels are heavier and harder to hide, but they soak up recoil and are easier to shoot well. A 3- to 4-inch mid-size is the popular middle ground because it carries and shoots both.
If you're set on a short barrel for carry, our 357 snub nose revolver picks narrow it down to the models built for pocket and belt carry.
How to Choose a .357 Revolver
The best 357 revolver for you comes down to fit and purpose, not the name on the frame. Before you buy, work through these five things:
- Intended use. Carry, home defense, range, or hunting. This sets your barrel length and frame size.
- Barrel length. Short for carry, longer for recoil control, velocity, and accuracy at the range.
- Hand fit. The grip should let you reach the trigger cleanly and hang onto the gun under recoil. A grip that fits tames a lot of the kick.
- Action. Almost all are double/single action, so you can fire fast double-action or cock the hammer for a light single-action pull on precise shots.
- Budget. A solid, reliable 357 revolver starts around $500, so you don't have to overspend to get one you can trust.
The easiest way to settle it is to put a few in your hands. Our team will walk you through the options at the shop, and you can rent and shoot models on our range before you decide.
Best .357 Revolvers and Brands
The best 357 revolver is the one that fits your hand and your job for it, but a handful of models stay popular for good reason. Models like the Smith & Wesson 686, Ruger GP100, and Colt Python lead the pack for their accuracy, rugged build, and reputation for running forever.
Our curated 357 lineup covers the brands shooters ask for most:
- Smith & Wesson -- the 686, the 627, and the carry-size 640 and 642
- Ruger -- the workhorse GP100 and the smaller SP101 for carry
- Colt -- the legendary Python and the King Cobra
- Taurus -- the budget-friendly 605 and Model 66
- Kimber and Charter Arms -- proven choices for lightweight carry guns
Plenty of these come in a short-barrel build too. And if you have your eye on a model we don't have in stock, just ask, since we can usually source it for you.
What a .357 Revolver Costs
Most 357 revolvers sell for $500 to $900, with budget-friendly models starting near $400 and premium guns like a Colt Python running $1,500 or more. You're paying for fit, finish, smoothness of the action, and brand, not just the caliber, so there's a good 357 at most price points.
Total Impact backs every revolver with a price-match guarantee. If you find the same 357 magnum revolver for less somewhere else, we'll match it, so you can shop without second-guessing the price.
How to Buy a .357 Revolver Online
Buying a 357 revolver online is simple, and federal law just requires that the handgun ship to a licensed dealer for pickup, not straight to your door. Here's how it works with us:
- Order your revolver. Pick your 357 and check out on our site.
- Pick your FFL. Choose a local licensed dealer (FFL) for the transfer, or pick up in our shop.
- We ship it. We send the revolver to that dealer anywhere in the country.
- Pass your background check. Complete the standard background check at the dealer, then take it home.
You must be at least 21 to buy a handgun. We handle FFL transfers both in and out, so we can ship your 357 to a dealer near you or receive one you bought elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions About .357 Revolvers
Is a 357 magnum good for self defense?
Yes, the 357 magnum is one of the most proven self-defense rounds there is, with a long track record of stopping threats. The full-power load hits hard, and you can practice cheaply with 38 Special in the same gun. For a broader look at defensive options, see our best handgun for self defense picks.
Can a 357 revolver shoot 38 Special?
Yes, every 357 magnum revolver can also fire 38 Special, since the 357 case is just a longer version of the 38. This lets you train with cheap, mild-recoiling 38 Special and load full-power 357 mag when you need it.
How much does a 357 revolver cost?
Most 357 revolvers cost between $500 and $900, with budget models near $400 and premium guns like the Colt Python at $1,500 or more. Total Impact price-matches any competitor, so you always pay the best price.
What is the best 357 revolver for concealed carry?
The best 357 for carry is a five-shot snub nose like a Smith & Wesson 640 or Ruger SP101, since the short barrel and small frame hide easily. They kick more than a full-size gun, so a lot of carriers practice with 38 Special and load 357 mag for the street.
How many rounds does a 357 revolver hold?
A 357 revolver typically holds 5 to 7 rounds depending on frame size. Compact carry guns usually hold 5, mid-size and full-size models hold 6, and a few larger-frame revolvers hold 7.
Is a 357 or 44 magnum better?
The 357 magnum has lighter recoil, cheaper ammo, and more carry-friendly options, while the 44 magnum throws a much heavier bullet for big game and bear country. For everyday self defense and range use the 357 is the more practical choice, but for hunting and serious power, the 44 magnum has the edge.
Find Your Next .357 at Total Impact
Whether you're after your first carry revolver or a full-size gun for the range and the woods, Total Impact has the 357 revolvers, the price-match guarantee, and the range to help you choose with confidence. Browse the lineup above, and reach out if you want one we can source for you.