The .357 is only good out to about 30 yards if you are lucky. I carry one as a backup gun only. If you want to use a hand gun for hunting get at least a 44 mag...however I would recommend the 454, 460, or 500. Smith and Wesson make both the 460 and 500. You can get the 454 from Ruger. If you are worried about recoil get the gun ported. It will take the kick out of it.