With standard run of the mil ammo, the 357 will take deer but is right on the minimum line IMO. HOWEVER with good 180 grain wide nose cast bullets, It becomes a whole different animal capable of taking deer and maybe even bigger game. An LBT style hard cast bullet would shoot through about any deer at about any angle. Most folks don't take the time and effort to study up on the performance of cast bullets where Momentum replaces Kenetic enrgy and wide nose bullets creat large wound channels. Check out the offerings from Buffalo Bore ammo.