Introduced in 1935, the .357 Magnum was Smith & Wesson's answer to Colt's .38 Super, a powerful cartridge capable of piercing the metal doors of speeding cars and taking out the armor often used by moonshiners during the Prohibition period. Not even Smith & Wesson's beloved .38 Special had that capability.

Since then, the .357 has proven itself to be one of law enforcement's most enduring handguns, thanks to its reliable performance, ability to pierce just about anything, and the high velocity of its ammo. If you don't mind a heavier trigger pull and do want a weapon that will take out anything in its path, here is a look at some of the reasons to embrace this iconic weapon for your EDC.

The Cartridge

The cartridge is the reason the .357 was developed and it is the reason this type of handgun is fully capable of passing the FBI's barrier and penetration tests. While it is the same diameter as the .38 but delivers a stronger slap to its target, and originally delivered a velocity of more than 1,500 fps when chambered with a 158-grain SWC.

The Power

Velocity + force = A truly intimidating punch and almost unmatched stopping power. In fact, when compared to the 9mm, .40 S&W, and the .45 Auto, the .357 magnum has a stopping power that is 5 to 15 percent greater. That puts a very reliable end to any fight at your literal fingertips.

The Simplicity

The .357 magnum isn't necessarily easy to fire. The double action trigger and powerful velocity can make for a heavy trigger pull and strong recoil. However, this weapon is beautifully simple to operate. Thanks to the double action trigger, there is almost no chance of a jam and any problems that do arise are easy to fix simply by pulling the trigger again. That makes it straightforward for even beginners to manage.

The only hesitation you may have with using the .357 for your personal concealed carry weapon is its size and weight. Heavier and larger by necessity (thanks to the demands of the piercing cartridge), it can become uncomfortable to wear all day. Fortunately, EDC .357 admirers can still enjoy a .357 that is also manageable to carry - Here are some of our favorites.

Smith & Wesson 640

The Smith & Wesson 640 is a .357 that boasts an ultra-compact frame for almost-invisible carry. This weapon doesn't hold its punches, though. With a velocity that can exceed 1,100 fps when loaded with .357 ammo, it is capable of stopping well, anything, in its tracks. Want to use ammo with less kick for a smoother shooting experience? This small but mighty tool will handle .38 Specials with no trouble. It does have the 357's signature small capacity - Just 5 bullets fit in its barrel, but with the .357's stopping power, you may not need any more. Expect to pay a retail price of around $819 for a weapon that will put the power of the original .357 comfortably on your hip.

Smith & Wesson 340PD

It only makes sense that the original manufacturers of the .357 should still be turning out some of the industry's highest-quality versions today. The 340PD is a lightweight revolver whose scandium alloy frame lightens the load on your EDC, even with a longer length of more than 6 inches. With a 5-round capacity and a snub nose, it offers power combined with concealability that will tuck underneath most pieces of EDC clothing. Expect to pay around $1,149 for this masterpiece of personal defense.

Kimber 6s

The Kimber K6s is one of the sleekest and most impressive .357s on the market. Manufactured with the highest level of attention to detail, this revolver is crafted from lightweight aluminum and a two-inch barrel. As a result, it almost entirely eliminates clothing print and is easy to carry all day, every day. Despite its compact and lightweight size, it can carry up to six rounds and boasts a smooth trigger pull that makes this a delight to shoot, despite carrying a .357 caliber. Its snag-free design enhances ease of draw and holstering. Expect to pay about $985 to add this to your EDC collection.

Colt King Cobra Carry

The classic revolver design is lovingly enshrined in the Colt King Cobra Carry, while modern features make it perfect for today's concealed carry needs. The 2-inch barrel still allows for a relatively impressive 6-round capacity that provides you with the firepower you need alongside the concealability you require. While not the lightest 357 on the market, thanks to its stainless steel construction, this weapon boasts an ergonomic grip that makes it easy to hold and handle. Its consistent performance and precise shots mean you can stop a threat at anytime. Expect to pay about $959 for this concealed carry gem.

Taurus 605

As one of the most affordable guns on our list, the Taurus 605 offers the best combination of price and performance. The small frame and barrel hold 5 rounds total, delivering the renowned firepower of the .357 in an easily-concealed package. Plus, this gun features Taurus' patented Ribber grips to enhance the feel and stability of this weapon as you handle it. Expect to pay about $432 to add it to your EDC lineup.

Ready to experience the power of the .357 magnum? Add any of these compact options to your EDC lineup and see why the .357 magnum has been a treasured and popular option for almost 100 years.