Magnum POWER!....158 Grain Underwood .357 Magnum AMMO Test! Is This Some of The BEST?

[@williamwatson4625]

It's interesting to mention that .357 magnum rounds originally had a higher SAAMI spec pressure limit of around 43,500 psi. So, if anyone bought a box of 158 gr. .357 magnum rounds before 1990, those 158 gr. .357 rounds could actually travel at 1500+ fps out of a 3 or 4" barrel. A lot of people are wondering why a box of 158 gr. .357 magnum rounds bought after the 1990's are only travelling at about 1300 fps or less. In the mid-1990's, SAAMI started lowering the maximum pressure specs for the .357 magnum by 25% (down to around 35,000 psi) as Smith & Wesson was manufacturing k-frame revolvers. Those original 43,500 psi .357 loads were just destroying their k-frame model 19s and 66s. After replacing countless barrels and frames on their k-frame revolvers S&W, rather than deciding to stop chambering their k-frame revolvers in .357 magnum, petitioned SAAMI instead to lower the chamber pressure down to 35,000 psi. The original .357 magnum rounds were only meant to be fired out of an n-frame revolver with a beefy barrel and a heavy frame, like the model 27 or 28. Corbon and Buffalo Bore still make the higher SAAMI spec pressure .357 magnum loads but all the other US ammo manufacturers discontinued making them. Isn't it any wonder now why LEOs around the country and Gen. George S. Patton loved the .357 magnum in the years following its inception in 1935. Just my $0.02.

[@scottdunn2178]

The folks who publish the SAAMI specs caved to "pressure" from S&W and other manufacturers who were insisting on stuffing the .357 into tiny J-Frame revolvers that were never really designed to handle even a steady diet of +P .38 Special... let alone full-power, traditional .357 loads. Nowadays you have to actually seek out the old full power .357 or you'll more than likely be getting the newer neutered stuff. I hate corruption.

[@tawan5753]

Hi quick question. By chance I came by some .357 magnum Winchester rounds with W-W stamped on the case and a cone shaped bullet. After some research I found out these were Winchester super magnum made in 1979 and it was marketed as metal piercing and absolutely loaded up to the top with no room for any sloshing around of the propellant. Now my EDC is a S&W 8 shot N-frame snubby chambered in .357 magnums but its aluminum frame with a little bit of scandium. The barrel itself is relatively thin steel reinforced with titanium around the barrel. My question is do you think this gun is capable of handling those old school pressures or not? I’ve put thousands of rounds through this little guy with no problems at all aside from the cylinder release button screw coming slightly loose a couple times. P.s. I don’t have a lot of these rounds and they’re now considered collectibles with prices online I’ve seen for $8 a pop so I won’t be shooting these at the range ever. However I’m considering using them as my EDC rounds. I mean if its a life or death situation then I might as well use it and defend myself with the biggest bang possible (though hopefully I’ll never have to). However I am concerned the pressure might be too much for this aluminum frame and it might blow up in my face instead of the attacker so idk.

[@williamwatson4625]

@@tawan5753 Frankly, I won't fire even a single round of those higher-pressure .357 rounds through your aluminum-made snubby revolver. I won't risk blowing up that beautifully-made revolver. That's just my take. Is the forcing cone on your snubby thick enough to handle the pressure? The model 27s & 28s were made of carbon steel and they have forcing cones that are thick enough. So, those guns can be fed a steady diet of the original .357 rounds without a problem. If I were you, I'd stick to the .357 rounds made after the 90's.

[@tawan5753]

@@williamwatson4625 okay I think you made the right call on this one. See I always felt like my forcing cone was thick until I googled the forcing cone of the model 27 just now and grabbed a ruler to measure mine. It’s literally 1mm lmao. It’s actually like 2mm at the base of the cone but tapers off half way into 1mm as it meets the cylinder face. I was wondering why they didn’t just make it 2mm the entire way and upon observing I think the obvious answer is because the 8 shots is a pretty tight fit in this cylinder and were they to keep it at 2mm the entire way parts of the forcing cone would be obstructing the two chambers next to the one in line with the forcing cone. Which technically shouldn’t affect the function in any way but it’s probably more for aesthetics. Anyways thanks for your advice. See I always carried these on me in the event where I need some extra penetrating power for car doors or some attacker with body armor. I guess I’ll stop carrying these rounds as backup and go back to my xtp hollow points.

[@robertkubrick3738]

@@tawan5753 Those metal piercing won't even go through body armor. It was a gimmick even 50 years ago. They are just slightly pointier FMJ.

[@randyhavard6084]

Yes sir that's definitely what you want from a 357 Magnum. I hate when companies charge Magnum prices for their ammo and only give you 9mm performance

[@jstephen45]

I actually been thinking about hunting with a 4" GP100 and this load may fit that bill. Give us the real magnum power we're paying for!

[@frankbutta9344]

It never fails to amaze me that a short barrel .357 can rival a longer barrel. I own several different .357 magnums, but my 2.5” 686+ gets carried 99.9% of the time. 👍👍👍👍

[@ToolsandTargets]

😎👊

[@jstud999]

.357 mag and 10mm are definitely some unique cartridges. I often think the same thing

[@sparky_-mf2cs]

​@@jstud999my 2 fav

[@MulletDestructur]

Fast burning powder, so you’re not wasting powder

[@highxj]

@@MulletDestructur I can guarantee they're not using a fast powder.

[@rmax2]

Fantastic stopping power since 1935! 👍

[@ToolsandTargets]

😎👊

[@rsbreeze]

I'd agree with that statement!

[@LyleSmith-q3e]

I’ve been carrying a 357 for 60 years. My favorite as cartridge.

[@delles1548]

Another great vid. Finally, a factory load that compares to my handloads. Today, most factory 125 grain loads only reach 1,400-1,450fps in my 4 inch 357's, so a 158grain going 1,450fps or so is a real old-time magnum.

[@josephpacchetti5997]

Yeah buddy, The 357-Magnum is my favorite caliber, It was my duty and EDC when I was a deputy sheriff back in the early 80s, those look very good, I ran the Remington 125gr SJHP, In a 3"Ruger speed six or S&W model 19-1combat Magnum 4" Thanks Brian, I really enjoyed this! 👍 🇺🇸

[@ToolsandTargets]

This is some good stuff without a doubt. Shows you what .357 Mag can do.😎👊

[@exothermal.sprocket]

When it comes to big power handgun cartridges: Buffalo Bore excels at rimmed revolver cartridges, exceeding Underwood in most cases. Underwood excels at rimless semi-auto cartridges, often exceeding Buffalo Bore. DoubleTap is a great choice for both. Grizzly is also pretty warm stuff. Steinel is a 3rd or 4th choice.

[@frankbrowning328]

It's about time we see full house 357Mag ammo. The 2'' barrel with this Underwood load is running as fast as generic 158gr ammo in a 4'' - 6'' barrel. Excellent penetration and good expansion!

[@MTMILITIAMAN7.62]

Regarding the penetration, the 158 gr .357 has a SD nearly identical to 200 gr .40 cal, and a momentum only two ft/lbs per second shy of the 200 gr at 1200 fps. So it shouldn't surprise anyone that the 158 gr XTP .357 load penetrates similiar to the 200 gr XTP 10mm load. Bullet construction, SD, and momentum are the three major contributing factors to penetration, and all three factors are basically identical in this case.

[@HuntingMontana]

Would love to see these ran through a lever gun. Its crazy how close 357 mag and 10mm is when you get some properly loaded ammo. Thank you for sharing!

[@ToolsandTargets]

Yessir. They should be cookin.😎👊

[@bobjohnson1633]

357 is superior due to heavier bullets being longer, and having the ability to hold the same charge. 10mm is superior for being a lighter recoiling round with heavier, slower bullets. Sort of like a smaller faster 45.

[@natehall6120]

​@ToolsandTargets you want to borrow my .357 Big Boy Mares Leg?

[@tommylitchfield3450]

Man, the hottest Buffalo Bore .357 loads in a carbine are REALLY close to 30-30 Winchester power! And the good ol' .357 is almost 100 years old! They did their homework when they worked up that loading.

[@kentuckywindage222]

Keith, Sharpe and Wesson, came up with the .357 mag and was from the .38 Special but to compete with Colts .38 Super. Which is a pretty good cartridge on its own.

[@Adam-nv9zo]

I've never been one to carry a short barreled tool (just personal preference), but if i did, I believe I'd go with the .357. It's always impressed me with its capabilities out of such a short barrel. Great video, as always, brother.

[@youngboyharless9769]

357. Mag when loaded right is one confident 5-6 shot small/medium package. I wouldn't hesitate to carry this load into the woods in the lower 48. 550 ft lbs in a snubbie is bonkers. Great test as usual Tnt! Gave you a 👍

[@scarifrougeone7225]

Great test and commentary. Good to see the quality and performance from the Underwood. Have been wanting to pick up a .357 but just not did it yet. 100% agreed and thanks for sharing be safe. 🇺🇸⭐️🇺🇸⭐️

[@chuckappel]

It is nice to see someone loading the 158 grain 357 at close to the original velocities. I would love to see this load tested in a 6 inch and/or a carbine. It looks like it might make a great hunting load.

[@billlewis8884]

Underwood rarely disappoints, but I really liked the performance of 154 gr Federal HST....hard to go wrong with either....

[@7come11two]

I knew these were hot as soon as you sent that first shot downrange. I would be happy with these velocities with a 125 grainer. But a 158? Wow!

[@stevecooper7037]

Restores my confidence in Underwood ammo. Thanks for posting all these great ammo tests.

[@robertkubrick3738]

Makes me nostalgic. It used to be most factory 158 jacketed loads would do 1400 and the lead gas check loads would do over 1500.

[@charlesmorgan1879]

I had a sneek peek when i worked at a dinner theater...Cybill Shepard changing clothes between scenes of a play ! 💥hot like a magnum !

[@picwik281]

Bro, you’re one of the hardest working guys on KZbin,

[@globalsacrifice5248]

Clocked low-mid 16's out of my Taurus Tracker 6.5. barrel. That stuff IS spicy!

[@anangryranger]

Refreshing to see a "real" .357mag factory load for a change! 👍 Everything lately has been loads made for children. But I don't do factory ammo, but for those dependent upon it, I'm glad folks can find ammo with some real power.

[@PassivePortfolios]

This is excellent hunting ammo with a well designed bullet that does everything it is supposed to do. Most hunters use revolvers with 6"-8" barrels so they should be getting close to the 1,500 fps advertised velocity. If this ammo is accurate, then it is the perfect hunting round. Thanks for another excellent test.

[@steelpunisher6944]

Nice!! Definitely good to see a .357 that performs like it was meant to. Especially from a shorty. The velocity loss usually turns them into fmj’s. Another great option from Underwood. Awesome test as always 👍🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@c.miller3802]

This is my deer killing round, Ruger Blackhawk 6.5". They clock at 1550-1600 fps. Deadly deer round

[@alexkuo3832]

Ur a life saver variety of tests on all different calibres knowledge i need for self defense. Thank you

[@electrochubb]

Excellent test 'Tools. I'm not surprised the 158's went that deep. It would be a great carry load. We appreciate all your time & work on these tests.!

[@ToolsandTargets]

Thank you sir.😎👊

[@Richard-p7c7h]

Im really getting into these revolvers lately. Im thinking about switching my EDC to a 357. I will be giving up 6 rounds of carry. But will be keeping all my shell casings

[@joeyphillips1181]

That 2" 605 bullet is what the AAC XTP's in 357 out of my 7" looked like lol that underwood is obviously much better stuff though.. I need to get some of that stuff one day for sure.. I imagine they would open up even better out of my 686+ 7"

[@joeyphillips1181]

In 357 the only barrel lengths I have are a 4" & 7"

[@timjohnson8390]

Nothing alive can argue with that sir... At least not alive long

[@Steve-yo4ld]

Impressed for sure, would love to see what you get from a 16 inch lever gun!✌️

[@jmichaelcarbonniere9549]

Great test, Brian! Whike I no longer carry revolvers, they don't just sit in the safe! They're always around, so to speak. While I of course have mine loaded with the Lehigh Xtreme Defender bullets, any other ammo I would rely on are with the 125 Gold Dot. Still, these did pretty well, so all is not lost! The current crop of watered down ammo that's now flooding the market is downright disgusting! I am starting to believe the we've raised a generation of wimps who simply cannot handle the least bit of recoil! It's so sad to see good calibers going down the tubes! But at least there are a few companies we can depend on to load 'em the way they should be and a few u tubers showing which ones they are! Thanks, Brian!

[@kimness7796]

Nice cartridge. Designed to shoot through automobiles in the 1920s from a big S&W N frame. Gotta say your videos are fast paced and get to the point. And stay there.

[@johnnystein67]

This round has convinced me to get a 357 for a carry gun in the rotation.

[@moreme40]

Underwood comes through yet again. Good video

[@RimfireAddicted70]

Are you wondering what ammo to buy and how it will perform? Well your answer can be found her! This channel is hands down the best at giving real world performance data and real numbers out of multiple platforms. By far this is my go to source for ammo info!

[@d.hayward5232]

Second positive range review in a row, this one in one of my favorite calibers, yeehaw!! Looks like I have to do some shopping, thanks again Man!

[@Bob.W.]

One thing going for the .357 mag is that it gains more speed in a long gun than any other handgun caliber, usually between 400-600 fps. This load would probably well exceed 2,000 fps in a lever gun.

[@ogbobbye]

over all underwood seems to be one of the best performing rounds for defensive carry of course buffalo bore is unmatched by others but underwood imo is a close second to them,

[@muhlenberg2608]

I really like this channel. Straightforward information without favoritism or sales talk. I have never bought Underwood ammunition before, but after seeing this I think it has become my favorite. As to the Underwood 357, I wouldn't want to try shooting this load in an aluminum or scandium framed revolver! SP 101 or equivalent would be the way to go I think. Velocity just tells you how fast the bullet is going, foot-pounds of energy is the true measure of potential of the cartridge to do work. 500 foot-pounds of energy out of the 2 inch barrel is just amazing.

[@TheZombieburner]

See, this is what gets me. I just got done watching your Underwood 38 special that you published today. That stuff wouldn't perform for love or money, but THIS stuff is nuclear hot and works perfectly. What the heck, Underwood!?

[@ToolsandTargets]

Yep

[@BertReno]

great timing. Just picked up an EAA Windicator in 357 mag. Thanks for the data

[@CeltKnight]

That is outstanding performance, especially from that 2" barrel. 20 - 20.5" in clear ballistics could well still be 18-19 in gel (too many variables to account for). In any case, that is about perfect. I normally run 125s in my 2.5" S&W 66 but I might look at these too.

[@ShamusMcFink]

The jelly master! Outstanding work. Your channel rocks!

[@ericearhart]

If you are pushing a bullet hard the XTP can handle it. I use them for my hunting loads in several calibers.

[@jameslindsey9692]

Amazing amount of shock transfer to the gelatin. That is important for damage...not just penetration. Percussive shock wave does damage body and organs close by. I do expect to see penetration from hot .357 loads

[@daviddenson3324]

Good 357 Mag ammo is a killer...literally. That's why I buy my .357 Sig and revolver .357 ammo from Underwood as well. But I buy the 125 gr. That's why I commented on your other video where you were using a snubby with 357 to try 125gr out of that snub nose. Mainly because I don't have the equipment you have and am curious how 125gr would perform out of a snubby. But I understand these things take time and money so no hurry, I appreciate the data you give us.

[@DrQuagmire1]

I use both the 125-grain & the 158-grainers from Underwood through my Ruger GP100, since i've had nothing but positive things about using them

[@kennethferguson4283]

Underwood, to their credit, appears to have started loading their ammo properly again. Performance is after all what pushes the Underwood sales.

[@DrQuagmire1]

especially with loyal customers buying their products over and over again

[@tahertz8544]

Underwood & Buffalo Bore just shine. Generally I get Underwood because there basically within 1 shot to the next variation. With same loading, but not in price.

[@DrQuagmire1]

PRECISELY the reason why I purchase Self-Defense rounds from Underwood Ammo, due to their reputation for selling high-quality products!!!! and give a special shout-out to Scott from "Kentucky Ballistics"

[@randyduncan795]

Back to back winners! It's so great to see 10mm and 357 properly loaded.

[@nickmccarthy5115]

Love underwood's 38 special rounds. More power than any other 38 round I've shot. Would love to try some Buffalo bore to compare the 2

[@HyksosKhamudi]

Pew Pew I actually really like my ruger sp101 with a 3 inch barrel. Sadly only holds 5 shots but shoots very well =)

[@stangaloski4208]

This just proves that the xtp really is a great bullet. Kudos to underwood for loading it correctly

[@mesauer]

The original 357 mag load was 158gr lead gas checked semi wadcutter @ 1550. I’m sure that was 6” barrel. The two N-frame guns (27,28) handled this load just fine. But when smaller framed guns were built the load had to be cooled down.

[@brandtbollers3183]

N frame 8 3/8 Model 27.the "Registered Magnum" 160gr.@1500fps.

[@charlesphillips5906]

Thanks for the short barrel!

[@shrubberry9774]

Thank you Tools. This is exactly the information I was looking for. Good to see this ammo is performing. Bless you brother.

[@tommylitchfield3450]

Stay warm out there, Tools. That should be easier with them HOT .357 loads! I love seein' it!

[@smydie]

Never seen underwood here Downunder,interesting to see how it performs ! If you can get magtech in .44 special 240g in cowboy load and some magtech 240g magnum it would be good to see how the special is received by the Jelly. Cheers

[@jessegallegos6685]

I have so much respect for you. You give us the most unbiased data on so many different rounds and their performance. I appreciate your work and keep doing what you're doing. Thanks again sir

[@randystockton624]

357 magnum and 10 mm running neck and neck..... looking at getting a 16 inch Rossi lever action rifle.... make it my bush rifle for deer hunting...

[@alcantrell5340]

Thanks for the video, gonna have to try some of those, for my GP100 Match Champion 4.2

[@MontanaWelldigger]

Nice test, I love my .357 revolvers, I got a slug of em! I dont think I'd want to dump a cylinder of them in my 340 PD!! OUCH!!. I just got some .357 Underwood 125 FMJ and 140 gr extreme penetrators. My biggest concern these days are 4 legged threats.

[@wasntmeXYZ]

Yes, everybody knows that UNDERWOOD makes an excellent product. The proof is in the Jelly!

[@DrQuagmire1]

that's what she said, =D

[@zigbeegooblesnort125]

I like how you get right to the test with great camera angels. Keep up the good work. I'm watching all your broadcast. Semper Fi ✝️ 🇺🇲

[@ToolsandTargets]

Thank you sir. Appreciate that.😎👊

[@jedinightstalker]

I concur! Always an informative video with no bullshit!👍

[@trustnot9]

Great test, Good job as always.

[@arnoldovillarreal9196]

Please do 44 mag 240 grain xtp with the Henry lever gun. I hunt whitetail and Russian boars in south Texas. Would love to see the results

[@scasey1960]

Great to get all these details.

[@johnnymccann5607]

in my state of NC during deer rifle season you .can hunt any center fire pistol/revolver with no caliber or minimum barrel length limits. with my Taurus defender revolvers 2in and 3in barrel i could kill dear no problem with that ammunition or my reloads equivalent to it. I'm highly impressed. Papa wishing you well 😊

[@michaeldonivan4955]

Absolutely perfect follow up to the 10 mil video. Shows how close those two should be. I am totally understanding what other posters are saying about the xtp. Load those things hot and they do perform well. Great test.

[@thatbeme]

Thanks for rounding off. It makes it easier to remember. 😊

[@Li0rE]

I watched you shoot 357 magnum out a snub before I'd ever tried it. I thought it wouldn't be too bad. Shooting out of a similar revolver with a 2" barrel, my hand hurts after every round :) you do a good job hiding the pain

[@ToolsandTargets]

You would be amazed at how good these G10 grips soak up recoil. I don't feel any kind of pain at all from anything out of this little guy. It is a night and day difference between the stock grips.

[@Eduardojr01]

Gosto de assistir seus vídeos pois são feitos ótimos testes , vejo todos 👏👏👏

[@AriePharmD]

Brian I’d love to see same ammo results from a 6” S&W 686. Velocity should hit 1500 fps with 21” full expansion penetration.

[@upholdthesecond92]

Hope you’re doing well Brian. I got some catching up to do on your videos. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@ToolsandTargets]

Hello , my friend! I was actually just wondering where you had gone to just the other day. Hope everything is good with you! You definitely have a lot of catchin up to do.😆

[@upholdthesecond92]

@@ToolsandTargetsI’m doing pretty well. Had some issues with the medication I was taking from my back surgery. Messed with my brain a bit. 🤕

[@balancedfordaylight1]

its amazing how well XTP's perform when driven to Magnum Velocities !!!!!

[@jeremyshackelford8080]

Thank you for testing the 2". I'll be looking for some of these

[@ToolsandTargets]

Hot stuff.😎👊

[@jeremyshackelford8080]

@@ToolsandTargets I've yet to find an Underwood load that disappointed. Even in 10mm

[@ElainesDomain]

I carry early 90's ammo but practice with new stock. As I understand i changes were made in 1995 that dropped the power of 357 40's and 10 mil. My early stock does far better than most of what we see now. I'll grab some Underwood since it looks so good. Thanks Tool Guy.

[@matthewbain6707]

I would love to see how this load performs in a 16-20inch carbine. Thank you for all the great content

[@jecoriculiaburras1985]

I just got King Cobra 6 inch barrel instantly felt in love with it 👍

[@stevendoe1555]

Gotta love Underwood 357 mag ammo it's ally I stock up on and carry in mine, I like the 125 grain XTP 357 underwood load or the 158 grain underwood 357 with the nosler bullet

[@kentuckywindage222]

That would be a great whitetail load. Nice job Tool's.

[@johnnymccann5607]

In two gun Taurus 605 defender 357mag heavy 180 gr gc-lfn 1300fps. 686 ft/lb in 3in barrels. buffalo bore states this is safe in all steel revolvers including j frame. I thought about reproducing that load. I think 500 to 550 ft/lb instead of the678 ft/lb will take care of most anything I come across. 😊papa wishing you well

[@pistolgrip44mag]

That's my second favorite caliber. BTW, at least you're not shoveling snow.

[@BUCK2ATACTICAL]

Aye Tools another great review as usual but I have a request for a 357 mag JHP test which is the Fiocchi Defense Dynamics 158 grain if you have not already done it thanks for sharing and caring!

[@brucevaughn2886]

Really really like this presentation!!! Very much enjoy using the.357 Mag. This load will be a top choice for handgun hunting next deer season!

[@katana258]

always liked the 357 ..125 gr hot loads ..

[@abengelbrecht]

Glad to see Underwood loading revolver cartridges properly again, they were slacking a while back with magnums.

[@ClintonManning-m8e]

Underwood has got some good rounds

[@tomsreviews238]

When I was a kid in the 70's, you could readily buy fire-breathing .357 off the shelf, no doubt that they were magnum loaded rounds.

[@edwardzamorski3711]

Another good test I thought they were loading them weak more like a 38 instead of 357 thanks tools I know what ammo to buy

[@guardianminifarm8005]

Success! Very good results. Keepers. Again many thanks.

[@scootertrash911]

This stuff might kick a little in a J-Frame Smith, not to mention starting brush fires in dry weather.

[@johnlacasse8893]

Almost never disappointed by 357 magnum...

[@Wildwestwrangler]

Underwood uses a 6 inch Ruger gp100

[@deadmeat8754]

You should try the Prvi Partisan 158gr JHP, or JSP 357 Magnum. They're very hot factory loads. Great for pistol caliber revolver and carbine hunting. Would be devastating as personal defense load.

[@lutherpayne9957]

Proper .357 mag is a sure enough a stopper. And this Underwood proves that you don't have to settle for white box or green and white box junk.

[@bobwilson758]

Bullets can do some crazy stuff !

[@joshuabriggs7114]

This load does 1335fps out of a 3" SP101. Great load :)

[@ejsocci2630]

This.357 guy sure is loving this video thanks brother