If I had only a 357, I'd shoot myself with it instead of some critter chewing or stomping me to oblivion. Now, if it was the only thing I had on hand, I'd use at least 180 gr LBT or better yet, the 200 gr LBT for pure penetration. 357's are great man-stoppers or medium game. I know Doug Wesson went all over the world whacking everything to advertise the then new "357 Magnum" but he had back up and he was an excellent shot.