If you load it right its a monster. The part where they did they barrel length testing and my own research indicate you should only lose 150 fps in a 10 inch barrel give or take a little. That puts a 180 at a potential 2250 in a 10 inch barrel. Which is only about 200 fps slower than a 14inch 308. Of course this is all well outside of any listed data. Bit most loading data cuts off around 40,000 psi and the 357 max case head is the same diameter (approx) size as a 223 which is loaded to 55,000 in the old style contender with no issues. What this means is at the same pressure both cases exert the same bolt thrust at 55,000 so the gun can handle it easily. Of course is all experimental and must be approached with appropriate caution. Mike Bellm told me in a conversation we had that he has a guy regularly taking elk with his 12 inch max and the 200 FTX so its enough gun that's for sure and I plan on having one built at 13 inches eventually but for now my Mag will do as much as I could ask of it. Overall the max is a pretty darn good choice for the handloader to bring out the true potential of and for the hunter who wants a handy fairly inexpensive low recoiling gun for animals up to elk size.
