Henry Rifle Forums

I’m thinking about getting a Big Boy steel rifle, but I’m debating about which caliber I want. Choices are .357, .44 magnum, .45 Colt. I want to also have a revolver (or two or three) in the same caliber. The Big Boy would be used almost exclusively at the range where I can shoot at 25, 50 and 100 yards.

Factors to consider are fun to shoot, ease of reloading, cost of ammo and reloading components. I’m thinking that .357 would make the most sense, since I already have .357/.38 revolvers, and I already reload for them.

I do like, however, the idea of shooting a larger, and more historically correct caliber, such as .44 or .45. It would require buying dies and components, as well as a new revolver. What a conundrum. Any ideas?

Well, my vote would be for the .357. That is what I have in the BBS. It is definitely cheaper to shoot and reload for than any of the others. And like you, I already loaded for it. I have zero regrets for the decision on caliber. The only reason, in my mind, to go with a more powerful cartridge is if you are going to hunt with it, and desire a larger caliber for game.

If cost is a major consideration, go with the .357. You’re already set up to reload, and there is a noticeable difference in cost between .357 and .44/.45 caliber bullets. And as a Reloader, you can adjust up or down to maximize your “fun factor”. That being said, I vote for .45 Colt. It has way more “history” than the other two combined, and those big .45 bullets have their own coolness factor. I have a big boy brass in .45 Colt, and a 5.5 inch Ruger Blackhawk to go with it. I really enjoy them both.

Personally I’d say .357 if it’s just a range shooter. Less money to shoot and less recoil. The historical aspect however screams .45 Colt. That also gives you the bonus of “needing” to buy a companion wheel gun. I guess you need to decide how much you want to spend as that second .45 would double your investment.

I really enjoy 45 Colt. Great to shoot.

ditto1958 wrote:I’m thinking about getting a Big Boy steel rifle, but I’m debating about which caliber I want....
Factors to consider are fun to shoot, ease of reloading, cost of ammo and reloading components. I’m thinking that .357 would make the most sense, since I already have .357/.38 revolvers, and I already reload for them.

Well, you've already determined what makes the most sense, ditto; so the question now is whether owning and shooting more historic western calibers like .44 and .45 means enough to you to invest in another caliber and whether the money spent will equate to more fun at the range than you already enjoy.

I agree with Clovishound. And, I'm looking forward to reading what you finally decide and why.

Range rifle = .357, based on you list of choices. I've bought my share of guns based on emotion/history/romance/image, and they didn't seem to last long vs. the ones that are really useful/fun to shoot/affordable/utilitarian.

BBS .357 was my first Henry, so there's that bias, but it hits a real sweet spot, IMO.

A 357 is the most versatile of the three mentioned.
As a range gun or you go to hunting rifle.
It loads up and down. Reloads cheaper that buying 22mag. Shoots 180 grain pills if you feel a need for something bigger than 158.

I recommend a 45-70 if you want a big bore.

GREAT BIG holes, wood splinters flying, a thump when they hit....

Hmmm... while in some ways .357/.38 would make the most sense, I’m kinda thinking that .45 might be more enjoyable. Yes, I would then “need” a new revolver, but that’s not a bad thing. My favorite handgun caliber to reload is .45 acp, so I’m thinking .45 Colt would be very similar.

I knew you’d see it my way;)

For your criteria the .357 is the logical choice . But there is nothing wrong with owning more than one..my first was a 357 and just got my second, a 41 mag, a couple of weeks ago. Their main purpose is whitetail hunting and fun shooting secondly.

Three great calibers there. Decisions, decisions ! Cost of components for handloading and just plain fun shooting along with pairing up to you already owning pistols in the .357 would be nice. That being said I would probably opt for the .45. Bit more pricey to shoot but I love them. Versatility in loads that range from 185 gr to the 250 gr cowboy loads to the 325 gr bear busters. Your choice in the Henry would digest any of these to great affect depending on application whether plinking, self defense or hunting rounds. If your looking to pair it with a pistol in .45 also, I'd go with the Ruger Blackhawk. It will handle the big loads. I really enjoy my .45 Peacemaker and it shoots great especially with the 250 gr HSM Cowboy loads but it doesn't have quite the frame and strength of the Rugers for the heavy loads. Just my opinions here.

Just to throw in another option, what about .44 magnum?

well heck, I add my nickels worth too. How about another option, what about .30-30?

Dont be so boring Ditto get the 41 mag in a carbine model. Be different dont go with no boring 45 colt. Then youre gonna need some floppy cowboy hat, a horse, and a saddle to lean your gun up against. Next thing we know you will be back on here wanting a name for the horse you just bought.

Well, the .357 mag has been around longer than the .44 mag by some 20 years.

Historically, the .45 Colt has been around since 1873.

Economically, the .357 (1935) is the best choice. Even more so for a reloader.

I load and like them all, but shoot ,357 most often.

If you want a really economical to load cartridge, look at the .327.

Get the Ruger Blackhawk that comes with the 45 Colt and 45 ACP cylinders. Shoot the 45 ACP when the budget is tight and the 45 Colt when you are feeling nostalgic.

Don't forget spurs and rope when you get that nice 45 Colt for you and your trusty steed.

I own one in .44 magnum but for what you want it for I would vote for 45 Colt. It's much more of a historic caliber.