Top 10 Things You Didn't Know About The 357 Magnum

Published on January 5, 2025
Duration: 4:39

This video explores ten lesser-known facts about the .357 Magnum cartridge. It details its origins, key figures like Elmer Keith, its development for penetrating vehicle cover during the gangster era, and its early adoption by law enforcement. The information highlights the cartridge's significance in initiating the 'Magnum era' of handgun rounds.

Quick Summary

The .357 Magnum cartridge, based on the .38 Special, was developed by Elmer Keith and others to penetrate vehicle cover during the gangster era. It initiated the 'Magnum era' of handgun rounds and was first housed in the Smith & Wesson .357 Registered Magnum, later the Model 27.

Chapters

  1. 00:04What is the .357 Magnum?
  2. 00:30Fact 1: Creator - Elmer Keith
  3. 00:45Fact 2: Marine Scout Sniper Connection
  4. 01:11Fact 3: Penetrating Vehicle Cover
  5. 01:31Fact 4: Law Enforcement Popularity
  6. 01:47Fact 5: Case Extension for Safety
  7. 02:04Fact 6: European Designation
  8. 02:13Fact 7: First Magnum Round
  9. 02:27Fact 8: The Registered Magnum
  10. 02:42Fact 9: J. Edgar Hoover's Revolver
  11. 03:00Fact 10: First Police Department Use

Frequently Asked Questions

Who created the .357 Magnum cartridge?

The .357 Magnum cartridge was primarily created by Elmer Keith, with assistance from Philip B. Sharpe and Douglas B. Wesson. Elmer Keith is also known as the 'father of big bore handgun' and contributed to the development of other magnum rounds like the .44 Magnum and .41 Magnum.

What was the original purpose behind developing the .357 Magnum?

The .357 Magnum was developed in an effort to create a handgun round capable of penetrating automobile cover. This was a significant challenge for law enforcement and FBI agents dealing with criminals during the post-World War I gangster era.

How is the .357 Magnum related to the .38 Special?

The .357 Magnum cartridge is based on the .38 Special cartridge. The difference in case length is only 1/8 inch, with the extension primarily serving as a safety feature rather than a source of increased power.

What was the first .357 Magnum revolver called?

The very first .357 Magnum revolver was referred to as the Smith & Wesson .357 Registered Magnum. It was later officially designated as the Smith & Wesson Model 27.

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