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

Published on January 11, 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 historical significance and its evolution from the .38 Special.

Quick Summary

The .357 Magnum cartridge, a revolver round with a .357-inch diameter, was developed by Elmer Keith, Philip B. Sharpe, and D.B. Wesson. It initiated the 'Magnum era' and was designed to penetrate vehicle cover during the gangster era. Its case is only 1/8 inch longer than the .38 Special for safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Intro to .357 Magnum
  2. 00:30Fact 1: Creators & Influences
  3. 00:45Fact 2: Eric Roy England & Ballistics
  4. 01:11Fact 3: Penetrating Vehicle Cover
  5. 01:31Fact 4: Law Enforcement Popularity
  6. 01:43Fact 5: Case Extension Explained
  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 Adoption
  12. 03:30Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the primary creators of the .357 Magnum cartridge?

The .357 Magnum cartridge was primarily created by Elmer Keith, with significant help from Philip B. Sharpe and the engineering expertise of D.B. Wesson. Elmer Keith is also recognized as the 'father of big bore handgunning'.

What was a key reason for developing the .357 Magnum cartridge?

A primary objective for developing the .357 Magnum was to create a handgun round capable of penetrating automobile cover. This was a critical need during the post-World War I gangster era, where law enforcement struggled with existing rounds.

How does the .357 Magnum case differ from the .38 Special case?

The .357 Magnum case is only 1/8 inch longer than the .38 Special case. This extension was not necessary for achieving the Magnum's power but was implemented for safety reasons to prevent the more powerful Magnum rounds from being chambered in older .38 Special revolvers.

Which law enforcement agency was the first to officially use the .357 Magnum?

While the FBI was an early adopter, the Kansas City Police Department was the very first police department to officially use the .357 Registered Magnum. They utilized the Model 27 with a 4-inch barrel to combat organized crime syndicates.

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