I read a post on the S&W model 19 not being strong enough for a steady diet of heavy magnum loads.
I have a Taurus model 65 .357mag., which is a licensed copy of the S&W model 66. Is this considered a "weak" design also? Would it stand up to heavy loads?
It has a 4" barrel and wasn't designed as a hunting handgun, and the stock sights are crap, but I don't want to spend a lot on sights etc. if it can't handle heavy loads.
I am planning on loading 158gr Heith style hard cast bullets over an appropriate charge of (?) powder.
Thoughts?
Jim

Don't panic pepperbelly. Taurus makes strong guns. But do not try to load +P+ loads meant for the T\C Contender or other hand cannons. As long as you don't exceed the max loads meant for six guns, you'll be OK. But like the S&W, after many, many rounds the frame screws will need tightening.

I own a Raging Bull in 45 Colt and wasn't satisfied shooting the old-time wimpy loads at big game. I phoned Sierra, Nosler and Speer and asked why my sixgun wasn't just as strong as the Colt Anaconda or Ruger Redhawk which can digest modern +P 45 Colt loads. All three said my RB was as capable. It hasn't blown up yet and I have no reason to believe it ever will.

No panic, but before I start working up a load I want to make sure.
I had read about a .357 hardcast lead bullet loaded for bear defense in Rifle magazine. My first thought was "hey, I bet it will take feral pigs too!".
The load is stout but not hot, if I remember right. A hardcast 158 Keith bullet should do a number on pigs. I just wish the revolver had a 6" or better barrel. The 4" is great for carry, but not for hunting, especially with open sights.
Jim

Hi Jim,
I own one of these guns, I've fired countless rounds through it with no adverse effects. My favorite load is Lyman's # 358429 ahead of 7.4 grains of Unique, and it prints beautifully. Lyman's # 358477 ahead of 8 grains of Unique also works well. Both bullets should be cast very hard and quenched in water.
AM