I have owned four .44mags and I have used a .357 on a hog hunt. I did not feel well armed in thick brush with the .357, however it was very easy to shoot and have no doubt I would hit what I want at under 50yrds. I have since then got myself a compact .44 to cary when cover is thick. For tough critters I would opt for at least the .44 and for deer(not big Maine whitetails) the .357 is fine but only if you hit where you need to and keep shots close. I admit the .357 is fun and easy to shoot but so is a .22. If you never hunt anything tough then there is no reason why you should not get a .357, in fact I may get one just 'cause they are a heck of a lotta fun to shoot.