“.357 magnum”

A red dot optic on a smaller-sized semi-automatic is no big deal these days. So why not a red dot on a smaller-framed revolver?

For defense in the backcountry, look no further than Winchester Big Bore. Whether bear-hunting or simply seeking bear defense, Big Bore delivers the penetration and energy transfer needed to stop a big ursid in its tracks.

Taurus has introduced a set of optics-ready small-frame revolvers: the 856 T.O.R.O. and the 605 T.O.R.O.

Available in handgun calibers popularly carried in the backcountry, Winchester's Big Bore ammo was designed to offer consistent expansion, massive energy deposit and most importantly, trusted functioning.

Despite the magnum moniker, the .327 Federal Magnum is a pleasure to shoot, giving it a lot of flexibility. It is a viable defensive cartridge, and in a hunting rifle, is a great choice for when shot distances are on the shorter end of the spectrum.

The new 110 PCS bolt-action pistol is built around the 110’s factory blueprinted action, which is secured in a one-piece aluminum chassis from MDT and includes an AICS-style detachable box magazine. It makes for the perfect all-terrain firearm, and would be particularly useful when hunting from a tight ground blind.

When Colt introduced its new and improved Python revolver a couple of years ago, hunters admired it but waited for their gun: the Anaconda. Last year they got it, a .44 Magnum hunting handgun with a glossy finish, big grips and the world-famous Colt ventilated rib.

Contributor Frank Melloni puts the Savage 110 PCS through its paces at the range, in preparation for a fall afield.

These five cartridges are seeing renewed interest from deer hunters thanks to new hunting laws and improved ballistic performance.