Assuming use of proper ammo, what are your thoughts as to .357 mag being enough for an ethical kill on an illinois whitetail?

Also what would you consider the proper ammo as far as bullet type and weight?

After this season I would really appreciate any input. I appreciate any offers of opinion but would really like stuff based on real hunting experiences.

Thanks.

If kept under 50 yards with the heaviest bullet it will shoot accurately and drive deep into the vitals it would be adequate, but if you don't have one already and are looking to buy a handgun I'd get a 44 mag (Ruger is a good one) for what you're talking about.

Any bonded bullet ............ +/- 100 yards (if you do your part) IMO

Ive killed quite a few IL whitetail with a .357

Its been years though and I don't recall what ammo I used but I never had a problem.

Now days if I use a handgun which I don't very often I use a .45 colt and I chose that because of the wide options. The wife/family can shoot it with cowboy loads and get used to the bigger heavier framed gun but then you can buy some buffalo bore loads and really amp up the power for hunting.

Ruger blackhawk .45 colt is what I use but like I said not very often. We use it more for target shooting than anything.

I don't think I have shot a deer with a handgun since they did away with the handgun season so ive only shot doe and no big 250lb bucks

Missouri allows the use of centerfire pistols and revolvers during the Alternative Methods Portion of deer season--that is the normal muzzleloading season. I have thought of carrying a .357 along with my muzzleloader in case I needed a "finisher". That would allow a faster second shot then swabbing and reloading the smoke pole. I would use a 158 grain soft point if I do this, whatever brand that I have. I have a 4 inch Security Six, not really a hunting handgun so I am limited to a very close shot. As above, a .44 mag. would be more suitable, but I do not handle the recoil very well with them.

These loads will bore a hole thru ANY whitetail (broadside or slightly quartering). https://www.buffalobore.com/index.ph...t_detail&p=100

357. Magnum is just like any other caliber, it's Shot Placement.
You have to do your time shooting, and know your gun and ammo.
1 Well placed shot is better than 100 random shoots.
And a 357 Magnum is good way out to 100 yards.
Hornady LEVERevolution ammunition would be my choice.

http://www.hornady.com/store/38-Cal-.357-bullets

JMHO

I carried a .357 mag S&W 686 every day for over 30 years and I can shoot a handgun well. However, while a .357 certainly will go through a deers vitals it is not what I would carry if carrying a handgun specifically for deer, yes they will kill a deer, however, the dying doesn't happen quick enough for me unless it is a head shot. I have probably killed at least 100 deer with the caliber, that were crippled or injured so before someone asks, yes I have used the gun on deer. If anyone uses buffalo bore ammo they better have a gun that can take that kind of abuse. If I were going to buy a revolver to carry for deer it would be a .44 mag or a .45 colt with appropriate ammo. I use Lever evo in my ..45 colt for deer. That is my opinion and I am stiking with it.

I agree a .44 Magnum is better, a .357 Magnum will do the job.
If I was going to buy a handgun to hunt deer, it would be a .44 Magnum.
Just remember do your time shooting, to get good, whatever caliber you use.
A Well placed shot is better than 100 random shoots.

I believe 45 colt Lever evo falls just short of the required energy for a hand gun in IL.

I think the requirement is 500 ft lbs at the muzzle and lever evo gives you 460.

The buffalo bore gets you there but like you mentioned you need the right gun for that.