October 13, 2009
After looking at different sources, I contacted Bob Shell in AZ (author, reloading guru, x-pert etc) After he was absolutely sure I knew what I wanted, he said he could load and sell me .357 Maxi ammo at the rate of $15.00 per 20, plus shipping. I ordered 60 rounds from him plus 12 shipping, which I did not think was too bad. I figured that way I would have adequate brass for reload.
I just bought a RCBS single stage reloading set up, everything to get started, including a Speers reloading manual, all for $100.00. However, it has brand new, never used 9mm Luger dies. I am hoping to trade these for .38/.357 dies here with a guy I have been in touch with, OR take them to the next gun show and make a trade with a dealer there (where as I am going to need poweder etc.).
I did a lot of reloading during the early 1990's and used Bullseye powder with magnificent results in .38s, .357s and .45 ACP. In looking in the Speer manual for reloading the .357 SM, Bullseye was not one of the recommended powders and I am wonder if that is because of the longer case and the need for a slightly slower burning powder.
Any insight, suggestions, data will be GREATLY appreciated. The guy who runs the range where I shoot is anxious to have me come in with some ammo so he can see it in action (me too).
Thanks Tom
BTW, how do I automatically place pix on the ends of my post?
Tom Meservey, USN (Ret) Gun control, first grip the Dan Wesson in both hands……………
Supporter
Range Officer
Range Officers
May 2, 2009
DWF Supporters
Dans Club
Moderators
November 17, 2008
Range Officer
Range Officers
Dans Club
February 9, 2009
Supporter
Moderators
January 24, 2009
December 12, 2009
Ok, This is what a few of us have found out for data for the 357 Supermag's. The powder that has little or no pressure is 1680, But is very hard to work with as it is so fine. Another issue with 1680 is flame cutting, but as I have shot at least a 1000 rounds and have not seen my flame cutting increase. I think it is the powder of choice for accuracy and velocity. If you have a 8 inch barrel 25.5 grains with a 180 is max. Not for pressure, for waste of powder. That charge will deliver 1585 fps. 4227 is the most accurate, but is very dirty and will cover everything in powder, velocity is good on the high end around the 1500 fps. A charge of 22.0 grains with a 180 gives accuracy and velocity. H110 What a pressure headache this is, under max load around 1550 fps and accuracy is fair. This powder is also very fine and is temp sensitive in SM. 2400 this is a very good choice all around it will give over 1525 fps in the high end. It is easy to work with and is not temp sensitive. Accuracy is good and like 1680 is the powder I would recommend for your first time loading of SM. I saved the best for last. Lil Gun don't even bother with this powder in a revolver. I have read this powder is the best in a Contender sporting a 16 to 26 inch barrel, But put in a revolver and lookout!!! In 357 magnum it is my powder of choice as velocity is unreal and accuracy very good. Lil gun in SM is a No, No!!! All charges are erratic on accuracy and velocity. This is the most temp sensitive powder we tried. Loading in the high end will break 1600 fps, but can not group at all!!! We have more data available on other bullet weights and powders if you want it. Just PM me or 788, or superdan we are always glad to help anybody out.
Range Officer
Range Officers
Dans Club
February 9, 2009
December 12, 2009
Horse apiece. They are almost identical but the IMR seems more shinny? They both are so close in everything it really dose not matter. I have seen this in H vs IMR in 4198 too. What I have seen in 357 mag and SM, is IMR seems less dirty. Maybe it burns better? In 444 marlin loads with 4227 the H is less messy. Powder burn rate? From my experience and friends of mine you can cross reference loading data for both of these powders. Which ever you try first look and see which is the dirtiest for you, your load and your gun. As a Supers love a .002 and .003 can result in a binding the cylinder quicker then the other.
April 25, 2008
OK, I'll chime in. The best powder I found in my 8" .357 SuperMag is IMR-4227. H-110 and W-296 did not give me the accuracy I wanted. With IMR-4227 and the Speer 180 and 200 grain TMJ bullets, it was outstanding. I always use a Redding Profile Crimp die. 20.5 grains and 20.0 grains, respectively, using IHMSA nickel brass and Fed 205M primers.
Never tried H-4227 at that time, since 2" groups at 100 meters was the result of the above loads. In my Contender, W-296 with the Hornady 200 grain Spire Point bullet is excellent with Remington brass. Tried Lil Gun in the Contender, seemed to be decent
The Savantist
1 Guest(s)