forming 38-40 from other caliber brass

I know that 44-40 can be necked down to make 38-40 but I would like to know if there is any other caliber brass that can be used to make 38-40's. I read somewhere that .44mag brass can be used but I have no way to verify this. I've been buying Winchester brass and it's been working great so this isn't a necessity. It's just that the case life is short since the 38-40 walls are so thin and I thought that if I could form them from something with a thicker case wall that they might last a little longer. Not to mention that I have a good supply of .44mag brass. If it turns out to be more complicated and time consuming than it's worth......well I think you get the idea!

Anyone's reply with experience with this would be appreciated.


Also, can FFFg be used for holy black loads in 38-40? Am I gonna need a drop tube for this?

Thanks, Dominick

No other case can be used except 44-40 that I'm aware off.
.45 Colt rim is the wrong size.

And the .44 Mag case body is .010" smaller at the case rim so bulging would be a problem.
And the case mouth is .004" thicker on each side = .008" total.
And will get thicker still when necked down.
So they probably wouldn't chamber in a lot of guns.

Here is a good link on loading BP in the 38-40.
http://www.leverguns.com/articles/3840_blackpowder.htm

rc