Well, my first thought is just to load the .454 down your comfort level. There certainly Isn't any thing wrong with your thoughts of a .357max however. That's why the TC's are so nice. You can change to suit your needs or wants.

Dave

In addition to what Dave has said I would have to ask what your are going to be hunting. What is the terrain like where you'll be hunting. What kind of distances do you anticipate shooting at, etc.

For an Encore the possibilities are endless.

While I have never had either a .357 Maximum or a .454 Casull, I have done a little research on loading for them. Like Dave has stated, unless you simply desire a new Barrel the .454 can be loaded to velocity / recoil levels to suit the particular situation (much like I have done in the past with the .44 Magnum).

In addition I believe I read someplace that Winchester has came out with a mid range / milder recoiling factory load for the .454 Casull. I also copied and pasted all the loading data from the Hodgdon Web SIte and Freedom Arms Web Sites and they show loads all the way from Heavy .45 Colt Loads up to Full Power Loads for the .454 Casull.

I have been trying to convince myself that I need a 7 1/2" .454 Casull Magnum Research BFR. I too wouldn't need or want full power loads all the time, but still have the option to load it to it's full potential when needed.

Good luck with your quest.

Larry

After having fired both calibers I have to say the 357 max aint no bargain either. The other guys here gave you some great advice about downloading the 454. You can even go all the way down to 45 colt loadings and pressures. If you reall want the 357 max go ahead, but I think your giving up one problem for another. Maybe consider a shooting glove or a different stock. My advice would be to practice mostly with the easier 45 colt rounds and just put a few of the full house loads down range just before going hunting.

I think you guys are right when you say load it down. It is the cheaper route to go for sure. I loaded 20 rounds down to "hot" 45 LC levels and will try them. They are about 2 grains lower than bottom end 454 loads. We will see how that works.....Jim

Boy I'd sure hate to accidentaly put one of those loads in my Colt Single Action!! I'd have to change my handle to stumpy!

While it may be possible, I think you would have to load the 454 to a really short COL to get them to function in a CSA. If he loaded them to listed length the bullets will be sticking out the cylinder on a standard colt.

Dave

What distances are you planning on for the longest shot Jim?
For the most part for deer and like sized critters, the 260 gr. NP at 12-1300 fps (my choice)is plenty out 50 maybe 75 yards. Sounds like your reduced load should be in that ball park.

Dave