Can You Shoot 9mm Out of a .357 Magnum? A Deadly Misconception
The short answer is a resounding no. Attempting to fire a 9mm cartridge in a .357 Magnum revolver is incredibly dangerous and could result in serious injury or death. This isn't a matter of slight incompatibility; it's a fundamental difference in cartridge dimensions that makes it impossible and extremely hazardous.
Here's why:
The Critical Differences Between 9mm and .357 Magnum
The .357 Magnum and 9mm Parabellum (9x19mm) are entirely different cartridges. While both are pistol calibers, their dimensions—specifically the case diameter and overall length—are significantly different. Let's break it down:
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Case Diameter: The .357 Magnum case is substantially larger than a 9mm case. This means a 9mm round won't even fit into the chamber of a .357 Magnum revolver. The chamber is designed specifically for the larger .357 Magnum cartridge.
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Case Length: The .357 Magnum cartridge is longer than the 9mm cartridge. This length difference is crucial. If you could somehow force a 9mm round into a .357 Magnum cylinder (which is highly unlikely without significant damage), the shorter 9mm case would not fully seat in the chamber.
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Bullet Diameter: While the bullet diameter might seem similar at first glance, the slight difference in case size results in a mismatch of the bullet's positioning relative to the barrel. This could cause catastrophic failure upon firing.
What Happens If You Try?
Attempting to force a 9mm cartridge into a .357 Magnum revolver could lead to several disastrous outcomes:
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The 9mm round might get stuck in the cylinder. This would require a gunsmith to remove it, potentially damaging the firearm.
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Even if it seems to chamber, the smaller cartridge might not ignite properly. This results in a squib load—a partially burned powder charge—which leaves a bullet lodged in the barrel. Firing another round on top of this could cause a catastrophic barrel rupture.
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If the round does fire, the unsupported case could rupture in the chamber, potentially causing serious injury to the shooter or bystanders from escaping gas and metal fragments. The firearm itself could be severely damaged, rendering it useless and unsafe.
Safety First: Respecting Firearm Caliber Compatibility
Proper firearm handling is paramount. Always double-check your ammunition before loading any firearm. Never attempt to fire ammunition of a different caliber than your firearm is designed for. This reckless act could have devastating consequences. If you're unsure about a specific caliber, consult a qualified firearms expert or refer to the firearm's owner's manual. Your safety and the safety of those around you should always be your top priority.
