Caldunc,

Propmahn hit the nail on head with every point. The .38 Spcl should be reserved for plinking. A 6" .357 mag, considered by most to the minimum, is pretty easy to shoot and can be a handy deer slayer. If you are even somewhat experienced with a handgun, 4" - 6" groups at 50yds, then you will have no problems. Again, for this skill level, maximum yardage probably shouldn't exceed 35-40yds and pick your shots carefully. Due to the fact the .357 is not the heaviest hitter to choose from, you will be relying on shot placement and the penetration from a quality bullet. Standard hollowpoints are designed to expand with respect to the speed and energy that the particular caliber can deliver. You do not want full & immediate expansion upon impact or you'll get no penetration and nothing more than a flesh wound. You will want something comparable to a Partition or a Barnes X @ 180gr. Both of these bullets are designed to expand at lower velocities yet retain an "un-deformed" base that delivers consistent and usually full penetration. With the understanding that higher energy and larger bullet caliber's do offer the shooter added luxury, good bullet construction and shot placement is the rule of thumb you need to follow, regardless of the caliber, even with the 454 & .480. I will not discredit the minimum 1000 ft. lb. rule as many, more experienced than myself, hold that to be their standard. With all do respect to those individuals, that rule was the rule before we had such a range of quality bullets to choose from. I am a firm believer that when shooting a handgun the biggest limitation is the shooter.

Toby