Thread: 357 lever action popularity in NZ

I have a Marlin 1894CS in .357 and a Leupold VXII 1-4x20 in super low Weaver rings.

It comes along on day tramps, running possum lines, checking out new areas... those times when not seriously hunting, but good to have a short handy rifle "just in case".

Used to use Winchester 125 gr JHP that were fast accurate and small animals just about turned inside-out by very rapid expansion (no surprise as this ammo is recommended for personal protection).
Unfortunately had a few failures on big heavily built billy goats so changed to Federal 158 gr JHP which give better penetration.

Sometimes use .38 special 158 gr RNSP for target shooting but velocity so slow the trajectory is like rolling pumpkins.

IMO the .357 cartridge is no powerhouse but with the right bullet and careful shot placement it's reliable to 50 yd on goats and pigs, I consider 100 yds a long shot with this combo.
Brilliant fun for rabbits, possums and I guess wallabies but none around here (yet).