I just switched from a .44 magnum Rifle and a 4" Colt Anaconda to the .357 magnum Carbine and a 4" S&W 686 plus . The .357 mag combo is lighter and the ammo is far lighter. Easier to carry if I need to carry it with my bad leg. IMHO the .357 will do what I need it to do with the right loads, as There are no Grizz anyewhere near me, just black bear and moose in the mountains. .38/.357 might be easier to find if I have to "scrounge" ammo.