With most factory loads I would be inclined to agree with you. However, Buffalo Bore is producing some incredibly hot ammo for the .357. Their 158 grain load clocks more than 2000 fps out of a carbine and a 180 grain load that clocks around 1800 fps. These both deliver more energy than a remington 240 grain .44 mag load when fired from a pistol. If shot placement was good and the range was 75 yards or less, I feel a hot loaded .357 mag round would be adequate for whitetails.