[michaelmcgo]

I am about to start loading for a Marlin 1894 Lever gun in .44 Magnum (ballard rifling). I am going to use it on the 15th for Michigan Whitetails. Where would be a good place to start as far as bullets, powder, and primers? I am probably going to go with jacketed bullets, but would like to shoot them for practice as well as hunting. Unless hardcast is the way to go.

I'm looking for an accurate load in the medium/hot range.

[TN Shooter]

For accuracy and velocity, I have had good luck with 240 gr. XTP bullets in front of 2400, IMR 4227, or H-110 (the fastest). I typically use LP magnum primers and Starline brass.

I have not had the chance to try them on game yet but would not hesitate to do so if given the chance...

Good luck!

TN Shooter

[gomer]

I really love the 240gr XTP over 24gr of H110. That's a time proven load that really packs some punch.

[Ranger J]

I have had good luck accuracy wise with the 240 XTP/H110 combo but they are a little hotter than factory loads and they thump on the back end a bit if you don't have a good recoil pad. Winchester and Mag Tech 240 JSP are good if you want to shot factory.

RJ

[michaelmcgo]

Well, it sounds like I'm going to with the 240 XTP/H110 combo. Thanks guys, this reassures me of my starting point.

[michaelmcgo]

Thanks for the info guys. I just ordered 100 240gr. XPT's, and I'm planning on getting a pound of H110 when I pick up my gun. How about primers, I heard you can use rifle primers, I already have large rifle primers for my 7mm-08, should I use those, or buy some pistol primers?

Also, I never handloaded for a pistol cartridge before, any hints, tips, or tricks I should know about?

[wcwhitey]

XTP's in any weight are a great bullet design. H110 is a classic magnum powder. Use advertised data and you will be very happy. Primers, I would go with whatever is recommended with the data you choose. Your not looking to experiment just looking for a reliable load. Go with published data. LOL Bill

[TN Shooter]

Hi Michael:

Actually, you can't use large rifle (LR) primers in a large pistol (LP) primer pocket because the LR are taller/thicker and will protrude and cause you problems. I would stick with the recommended LP primer for the recipe you are loading for and you will be fine.:)

[Hutch]

I like the Winchester LP primer, as they state they are good for standard or magnum loads. H110 can be a little difficult to light off, so be SURE to use a mag primer AND a good crimp. The load you're choosing is my fave for jacketed .44M use. They make an AWESOME fireball out of a 3" 629, btw.

[Walkalong]

Mag Tech 240 JSP
over 19.9 Grs. AA #9 kills em dead every time if you hit em right.

MAX LOAD Reduce 10% to start.

XTP's are very, very, good of course. The Mag Techs were just on sale some time back. Bought them for practice, but they work fine for deer. :)

[Asherdan]

I like the XTP and use 2400 w/ WLP. Same setup with the H110 should work great for you.

Here is the Hornady Data Sheet (http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z120/Asherdan93/Hornady240XTP_265XTP44Mag.jpg) with load info for that bullet.

[GSPKurt]

I use the 300 XTP with H110 and to a lesser degree, 2400. Use Win Large Pistol primers and a good crimp.

I have killed 2 hogs with this combo in my Marlin .44 lever. GREAT gun/combo!