357 Magnum Hardcast Vs 357 Mag JSP Penetration Test!

Published on June 13, 2026
Duration: 7:37

This video provides a practical comparison of .357 Magnum hardcast and JSP ammunition through various mediums, including frozen milk jugs and a Level 4 ballistic plate. The presenter, Mr. Madness, demonstrates the penetration capabilities and expansion characteristics of each bullet type, highlighting the hardcast's non-deforming nature for deep penetration and the JSP's expansion for increased energy transfer. The test also showcases the resilience of an RTS Tactical Level 4 plate against multiple calibers and bullet types.

Quick Summary

In a .357 Magnum penetration test, 200-grain hardcast rounds averaged 1130-1315 fps and maintained their shape for deep penetration, while 158-grain JSP rounds averaged 1193 fps and expanded more. Both types penetrated frozen water jugs, but hardcast is preferred for bear defense due to its non-deforming characteristics.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 00:21Firearm: S&W Model 66 .357 Magnum
  3. 00:43Ammunition: Double Tap 200gr Hardcast
  4. 00:58Chronograph: Garmin C1 Pro Setup
  5. 01:03Comparison: Hardcast vs. .357 JSP
  6. 01:17Test Mediums: Frozen Water Jugs & Level 4 Plate
  7. 01:38Hardcast Velocity Test
  8. 01:58JSP Velocity Test
  9. 02:09Penetration Test: Hardcast vs. JSP (Water Jugs)
  10. 02:34JSP Water Jug Penetration Results
  11. 02:49Hardcast vs. JSP Expansion Comparison
  12. 02:55Second Water Jug Test
  13. 03:23Hardcast Performance Analysis (Non-Expansion)
  14. 03:33JSP Performance Analysis (Expansion)
  15. 03:46Level 4 Plate Test: 200gr Hardcast
  16. 04:06Level 4 Plate Resilience & History
  17. 04:45Outro & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hardcast and JSP .357 Magnum ammunition?

Hardcast .357 Magnum ammunition, like the 200-grain Double Tap tested, is designed to retain its shape for deep penetration, making it ideal for large game or tough barriers. JSP (Jacketed Soft Point) ammunition, such as the 158-grain tested, expands more upon impact, delivering greater energy transfer but less consistent deep penetration.

What kind of performance can be expected from 200-grain .357 Magnum hardcast rounds?

The 200-grain .357 Magnum hardcast rounds, tested from a Smith & Wesson Model 66 with a 4.25-inch barrel, averaged around 1130-1315 fps. They are designed to penetrate deeply without deforming, making them suitable for defense against large animals or through barriers.

How does a Level 4 ballistic plate perform against .357 Magnum rounds?

A Level 4 ballistic plate from RTS Tactical, which has withstood impacts from various calibers, showed significant bulging but no penetration when struck by a 200-grain .357 Magnum hardcast round. This demonstrates the plate's high level of protection against powerful handgun rounds.

Which .357 Magnum ammunition is better for bear defense?

For bear defense, hardcast .357 Magnum ammunition is generally recommended over JSP. Its ability to maintain its shape and penetrate deeply without significant expansion is crucial for reaching vital organs through thick hide and bone, as demonstrated in the penetration tests.

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