History Of The .357 Magnum

Published on April 11, 2020
Duration: 4:47

This video details the history and technical specifications of the .357 Magnum cartridge. It explains its development as an evolution of the .38 Special, driven by the need for greater penetration against vehicles during the Prohibition-era gangster period. Key figures like Elmer Keith and Philip Sharpe are highlighted, along with its initial adoption by law enforcement agencies like the FBI.

Quick Summary

The .357 Magnum cartridge is characterized by its .357 inch bullet diameter, .379 inch neck and base diameter, and a 1.29 inch case, capable of generating up to 35,000 psi. It fires 125-150 grain bullets at speeds over 1400 fps, evolving from the .38 Special to meet law enforcement needs against vehicles during the gangster era.

Chapters

  1. 00:21Introduction to the .357 Magnum
  2. 00:30.357 Magnum Technical Specifications
  3. 01:02Origins: Based on the .38 Special
  4. 01:11Post-WWI Gangster Era Context
  5. 01:47Law Enforcement Challenges
  6. 02:15Inventors: Elmer Keith, Philip Sharpe, Douglas Wes
  7. 02:34Philip Sharpe's Role with Smith & Wesson
  8. 02:54Famous Gangster Crimes
  9. 03:10Invention and First Gun: .357 Registered Magnum
  10. 03:19J. Edgar Hoover Receives First Magnum
  11. 03:32FBI and Police Adoption
  12. 03:47Gangster Crime Wave Details
  13. 04:02The First Magnum and the Magnum Era
  14. 04:13Modern Popularity and Role

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key technical specifications of the .357 Magnum cartridge?

The .357 Magnum features a .357 inch diameter bullet, a .379 inch neck and base diameter, and a 1.29 inch case. It operates at pressures up to 35,000 psi, firing bullets from 125 to 150 grains at speeds exceeding 1400 feet per second.

How was the .357 Magnum cartridge developed?

The .357 Magnum was developed by extending the case of the .38 Special cartridge by 1/8 of an inch. This modification, driven by the need for greater power to penetrate vehicle doors during the Prohibition era, created a significantly more potent round.

Who were the key figures involved in the creation of the .357 Magnum?

Key figures include Elmer Keith, renowned for his work with big bore handguns, and Philip Sharpe, who collaborated with Smith & Wesson. Their combined expertise led to the development and popularization of this powerful cartridge.

What was the historical context that led to the development of the .357 Magnum?

The .357 Magnum emerged from the post-World War I gangster era in America, a time of increased organized crime and widespread gun battles. Law enforcement struggled with existing cartridges' inability to penetrate vehicles, a common escape tool for criminals.

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