Yes, you are correct I believe. I always thought Dirty Harry used a 357 in his earlier movies but that's just from memory and it's probably not accurate from the classic movies I saw 20 plus years ago.

At the pistol range I have used both the 357 and a 44. Even the strongest of grips and wrists feel the mule kick from these revolvers. Modern lighter versions are different but if u want to feel what Dirty Harry experienced u have to go old school 70,s style to feel the original weight and kick.

The modern 9 mm pistols (which most modern police and security etc use) are so much lighter and so much easier to get very close groupings from.
If anyone has ever wondered what it's like to experience all the hand guns (pistols) you see on Iconic TV shows and movies, join a local gun club. Easily found and listed under SSAA (Sporting Shooters Assocs.