357 Mag vs 44 Mag: Not Even Close In Lever Actions?

Published on September 13, 2024
Duration: 12:11

This video from Banana Ballistics provides an in-depth comparison of the .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum calibers in lever-action rifles. The host, demonstrating high expertise, uses a structured testing methodology with a Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph and ballistics gel to assess performance across various materials like lumber, steel, and concrete. The .44 Magnum generally exhibits superior penetration and impact energy, especially in lever-action platforms, though both calibers show limitations against certain barriers.

Quick Summary

In lever-action rifles, the .44 Magnum generally outperforms the .357 Magnum in penetration and impact energy. Testing showed the .44 Magnum creating deeper dents in steel and achieving greater depth in ballistics gel. While the .357 Magnum achieves higher velocity, the .44 Magnum delivers more raw power crucial for certain applications.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: .357 Mag vs .44 Mag in Lever Actions
  2. 00:13Round 1: Lumber and Steel Impact
  3. 01:34Round 2: Water Jugs and Ballistics Torso
  4. 04:41Round 3: Concrete Paver Penetration
  5. 05:37Round 4: Mild Steel Plates
  6. 07:48Round 5: Ballistics Gel Penetration
  7. 11:03Velocity and Energy Data Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

How does .357 Magnum compare to .44 Magnum in lever-action rifles?

In lever-action rifles, the .44 Magnum generally outperforms the .357 Magnum in terms of penetration and impact energy. For example, a .44 Magnum load achieved deeper dents in steel and greater penetration in ballistics gel compared to the .357 Magnum during testing.

What are the key ballistics differences between .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum in lever actions?

The .44 Magnum (240 gr XTP) delivers higher energy (1,423 FT/LBS) and slightly lower velocity (1,634 FPS) from a 16.5-inch barrel compared to the .357 Magnum (158 gr XTP) at 1,111 FT/LBS and 1,779 FPS from a 17.4-inch barrel. The .44 Magnum shows a distinct advantage in raw power and penetration.

Which caliber is better for penetration: .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum in lever actions?

Based on the testing, the .44 Magnum demonstrates superior penetration capabilities in lever-action rifles. It created deeper dents in steel plates and achieved greater depth in ballistics gel compared to the .357 Magnum under similar test conditions.

What equipment was used to test the .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum?

The testing utilized a Garmin Xero C1 Pro Chronograph to measure velocity and energy. Various targets were used, including treated lumber, steel plates, concrete pavers, water jugs, a ballistics torso, and clear ballistics gel.

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