5 Best 357 Magnum Semi Auto Pistol Reviews

The.357 Magnum cartridge has been a staple of American firearms for decades, renowned for its impressive stopping power and versatility. While revolvers have long been the traditional platform for this iconic cartridge, semi-automatic pistols have gained popularity in recent years, offering a modern twist on a classic design. In this article, we'll delve into the world of.357 Magnum semi-auto pistols, exploring their benefits, mechanics, and the top models available on the market.

Benefits of.357 Magnum Semi-Auto Pistols

For those who want a semi-auto pistol that can handle the potent.357 Magnum cartridge, there are several key benefits. Firstly, the.357 Magnum offers impressive ballistics, with muzzle velocities reaching up to 1,200 ft/s and muzzle energies exceeding 600 ft-lbs. This makes it an excellent choice for hunting and self-defense applications.

Another advantage of.357 Magnum semi-auto pistols is their versatility. Many models can also chamber.38 Special cartridges, allowing shooters to switch between the two calibers with ease. This is particularly useful for target shooting and training, as.38 Special ammo is often less expensive and has less recoil.

Key Features to Consider

When shopping for a.357 Magnum semi-auto pistol, there are several key features to consider. Here are a few:

• Magazine capacity: Look for models with high-capacity magazines to minimize reloads.
• Barrel length: Longer barrels can improve accuracy and ballistics, but may make the pistol more difficult to conceal.
• Weight and ergonomics: Consider a pistol with a comfortable grip and manageable weight to reduce recoil and improve control.
• Safety features: Some pistols may include manual safeties, trigger safeties, or other safety features to prevent accidental discharges.

Top 5.357 Magnum Semi-Auto Pistols

Now that we've covered the benefits and key features of.357 Magnum semi-auto pistols, let's take a look at the top models available on the market:

1. Coonan Classic.357 Magnum

The Coonan Classic is a high-end semi-auto pistol designed specifically for the.357 Magnum cartridge. With a 5-inch barrel and 7-round magazine capacity, this pistol is ideal for hunting and target shooting. The Coonan Classic features a manual safety and is constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability.

2. Desert Eagle.357 Magnum

The Desert Eagle is a well-known semi-auto pistol chambered in.357 Magnum. This pistol features a 6-inch barrel and 9-round magazine capacity, making it a great choice for hunting and self-defense. The Desert Eagle also includes a manual safety and is constructed from high-quality materials for reliability.

3. Magnum Research BFR.357 Magnum

The Magnum Research BFR is a unique semi-auto pistol designed specifically for the.357 Magnum cartridge. This pistol features a 7.5-inch barrel and 5-round magazine capacity, making it ideal for hunting and target shooting. The BFR also includes a manual safety and is constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability.

4. Thompson/Center Encore Pro Hunter.357 Magnum

The Thompson/Center Encore Pro Hunter is a versatile semi-auto pistol chambered in.357 Magnum. This pistol features a 10-inch barrel and 6-round magazine capacity, making it a great choice for hunting and target shooting. The Encore Pro Hunter also includes a manual safety and is constructed from high-quality materials for reliability.

5. Ruger Blackhawk Convertible.357 Magnum

The Ruger Blackhawk Convertible is a classic semi-auto pistol chambered in.357 Magnum. This pistol features a 4.62-inch barrel and 6-round magazine capacity, making it a great choice for self-defense and target shooting. The Blackhawk Convertible also includes a manual safety and is constructed from high-quality materials for reliability.

Comparison Table

Here's a comparison table of the top 5.357 Magnum semi-auto pistols:

Conclusion

In conclusion,.357 Magnum semi-auto pistols offer a unique combination of power and versatility, making them an excellent choice for hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. When shopping for a.357 Magnum semi-auto pistol, consider key features such as magazine capacity, barrel length, and safety features. The top models available on the market offer a range of options to suit different needs and preferences.

We hope this article has provided valuable insights and information to help you make an informed decision when choosing a.357 Magnum semi-auto pistol. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, these pistols offer a unique and exciting shooting experience.