Utility Hunting Sidearm

[dmharvey]

I recently picked up an EAA Windicator 357 Magnum with a 4" barrel. I bought this to be my hunting sidearm during bow season since I've ran into bears over the years and you never know. I was looking for something simple/reliable yet priced low enough that I wouldn't feel bad about banging it around in the field. My expectations weren't very high in terms of overall fit and finish due to the price I paid but I am actually impressed with the gun so far. I took it to the range (my buddy's backyard) yesterday and put about 100 rounds through it without any problems...bulk 357, bulk 38, and some hotter personal defense rounds. The gun is a little on the heavy side, but it seems to be balanced pretty well, and it is pretty accurate at 25-30 yards with the fixed sights.

If anybody is in the market for a cheap 357 Magnum I'd say the EAA Windicator is worth considering. I picked it up with "you get what you pay for" in the back of my mind but it has exceeded my expectations and I'm sure it will be on my hip for many seasons to come.

Stock photo I found online:
http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h38 ... M_2845.jpg

[Palladin]

[gunderwood]

If you're worried about bears, make sure you pick up some of the dangerous game loads. Typically a Wide Flat Nose Hard Cast (WFNFC) and will be very heavy for caliber (~200gr for a .357Mag). You don't need the hottest loads for black bear. Get something you can shoot, but the loaded bullet will be very close to what I speced.