Guys,
Thanks for the feedback, it is much appreciated. I have considered stepping him up to a .44 and may do that. It would have to be something on the higher end to meet the energy requirement but it would not necessarily need to be a really hot load. Its just that he shoots the .357 pretty darn good and he is comfortable with the recoil.

As far as him getting drawn, I have a hunting buddy that calls him "Horseshoe" referring to what is apparently a small solid gold object on his person in a particular place that seems to manifest itself much of the time and is such a way that he seems to be lucky. Best thing is he just likes to hunt.

I am a little concerned about a scant blood trail myself.

Again, many thanks.