To 000 Buck: 357 Sig vs. others
The 357 Sig is a fine cartridge and I certainly would never discount it as a serious CCW choice. In fact, if more PDs issued pistols in this caliber I think we would have a lot more positive press about it.
The only reason I don't own one is the lack of good, relatively inexpensive practice ammo and the fact that you can't buy a box of 357 Sig in many small towns. I reload but am too often either too busy or too lazy to do so. More times than not, I find myself running to the store for a couple of boxes of cartridges for a shooting session.
If ammo availability is not an issue (i.e. you live in an area with a full service gun store that sells 357 Sig and is open at least six days a week) you need to think about other criteria.
In short, I like calibers I can buy in bulk and/or in nearly any area.
My 1 1/2 cents worth.