The .357 Magnum was introduced in 1935 as a joint effort between Smith & Wesson and Winchester. Its popularity has been widespread and the cartridge has been cambered in a variety of double and single-action revolvers, single-shot pistols, auto-loading pistols and derringers. It has been proven useful for hunting, target work, defense and law enforcement. Several rifle manufacturers have chambered guns in pump-action, bolt-action and single-shot designs; however, the .257 especially popular in lever action rifles. They are generally light and handy, offer modest recoil and are capable of taking deer game when used within reasonable distances.

Velocities achieved from rifle and carbine barrels (typically with lengths between 18 ½ to 24 inches) are often 400 to 600 fps faster than the same load in a common revolver. For example, the 20-inch test rifle used here, select loads pushed 125-grain Sierra bullets to 2,100 fps and 140-grain bullets to 2,000 fps. The 158-grain bullets often reached 1,700 to 1,800 fps.