r/canadaguns • u/Striker-of-life • Jun 17 '26

Buy recommendations Leaver action 44 or 357?

So I'm shopping for a leaver action in looking at a Smith and Weston 1854. But while I lean towards 357. Fomo is making me ask should I consider 44 mag more? I'm just curious what are you thoughts? 44 or 357 for leaver?

Edit/Update:

I ended up going for the S&W 1854 Sheath hunter in 357 thanks every one

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u/prosper_0 Jun 17 '26

you need both. They're different enough to warrant multiples.

I shoot probably 5 to 10 times more ammo through my 357s than through my 44s, but I'd say I actually enjoy my 44's more.

Both are next level fun if you're a reloader. 38/357 brass is plentiful and usually can get a coffee can full for free scavenging at the range. 44 is less common, but can still be found now and then. Both can be loaded with cheap plated bullets. Both can be loaded all the way from marshmallow-fart loads all the way up to 'what the hell was that?!?' fireball monsters. My 357 SBR makes some pretty good-n-loud fireballs when loaded up with H110.

Plus, they both pair nicely with wheelguns, if you're fortunate enough to own them