In my mind if you load the 357 mag properly with a 180 XTP or eq. bullet you have a pretty good hunting gun. The 357 can be streached a bit in guns like the 353 FA and the like. There are several on the site that love the 357 max. not that the mag will ever get near the performance of the max but one can come close in a strong wheel gun. If you want to use the 357 on deer make sure you use a 180 gr+ bullet and stoke it to the level you feel good with. I like the 180 XTP it allows for longer seating in some guns (this helps a bit on pressure) Other good options are the LBT style bullets. Try to max out the OAL for your gun this will allow for a bit more space in the case and keep pressures low.

Good luck and wear some ear plugs with that 357mag!