I chose the 357 mag revolver because I think it's a good all around caliber . The 357 is a proven man stopper and would take a whitetail if I could get close enough for a good shot. I could shoot 38 special ammo for small game. I agree that having a different firearm for each situation would be preferable but in my case I would prefer to travel light and avoid a fight. Besides , I can't afford a lot of different guns and it's not my top priority. I feel that a weapon is a tool of last resort in most survival situations.