Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Underwood 357 Magnum 180 grain flat nose load answers the woods carry question with a single-minded focus: penetration over expansion. Hard cast bullets coated in Underwood’s Black Cherry polymer compound push through bone, muscle, and fat without fragmenting or tumbling, maintaining their nose-forward trajectory from entry to exit. For revolvers and lever-action carbines facing four-legged threats in thick timber, this is the load that keeps working when hollow points fold. The 357 Magnum cartridge remains the most versatile defensive revolver round in North America, bridging the gap between compact carry and hard-hitting field performance.
Load Profile
Underwood machines these 180-grain projectiles from lead alloy, then applies a thermally stable polymer coating that prevents gas cutting and bore fouling at velocities that would strip traditional lube. The flat nose profile — a wide meplat across the bullet’s forward face — crushes tissue rather than slicing through it, creating a permanent wound channel without relying on expansion. Nickel-plated brass cases resist tarnish in leather holsters and humid climates, and Boxer primers make these cases reloadable for handloaders who want to duplicate the recipe at reduced cost. Flash-suppressed powder keeps your sight picture intact during low-light encounters.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 357 Magnum |
| Bullet weight | 180 grains |
| Bullet type | Flat Nose (hard cast, Black Cherry coated) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1400 fps (6-inch barrel) |
| Muzzle energy | 783 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Self-defense, woods carry, large predator |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammo (USA) |
This load sits at the upper end of the 357 Magnum pressure curve, so verify your revolver or carbine is rated for full-power magnum loads before sending the first box downrange. Sectional density of 0.202 means this bullet maintains momentum through heavy tissue, and the lack of expansion keeps all 180 grains driving forward until the threat stops or the bullet exits. For shooters building a 357 Magnum ammo inventory around woods carry, this is the hard-use option that pairs with your trail gun.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Observe the four rules of firearms safety — treat every firearm as loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, never point at anything you’re not willing to destroy, and know your target and what lies beyond it. Review the NSSF safety guidelines before handling ammunition.
- Verify current state and local laws before ordering. Some jurisdictions restrict ammunition sales, require permits, or mandate background checks for ammunition purchases.
- This ammunition contains lead. Wash hands thoroughly after handling, and follow California Proposition 65 exposure warnings. Do not handle ammunition while eating or smoking.
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