Long range handgun loads.

brutus51 · Jan 10, 2021

Just read a thread in general discussions regarding long range handgun loads and I've decided to give it a go. Will be bringing out my Dan Wesson 715 with the 8" barrel. Probably going to start at the 50 yard range then move to the 100. I'm thinking a 158gr. Missouri cast SWC with 14.0 grains of 2400 might be a good place to begin. Will be using the Iron sights which at my age is a handicap but I don't wish to go overboard on this endeavor. Anyway handload recommendations will be appreciated.

Charlie98 · Jan 10, 2021

You might try something like a 180grn SWC or TC bullet in that long barrel... the weight will be an advantage at 100yds.

NMexJim · Jan 10, 2021

Slower burning powders to take advantage of that loooong barrel. I have some experience w/ Blue Dot for this purpose. Just watch your barrel temp.

AJC1 · Jan 10, 2021

I've shot my dads 686 six inch with ramshot enforcer loaded with 158 xtp and would hit 4 or 5 of 6 at 100 on a full size steel siloette. That was a few years ago before he passed so I dont have his exact load. Wish I had better details to pass along.

Charlie98 · Jan 10, 2021

brutus51 said:
2400

As far as powder, anything starting with Unique and slower should work well... IMR4227, H110/W296, AA#7 or #9, etc.

brutus51 · Jan 10, 2021

Have AA#9 and H110 on hand but I've had some really good results with VV-N105 in my 38 Super may try some of that.

murf · Jan 10, 2021

i vote for using 180 grain truncated cone bullets and your 2400 powder. running cast bullets much over 1200 fps, without a gas check, is looking for leading trouble.

luck,

murf

Jonny V · Jan 10, 2021

I have a 715 too, and if you want to go long with cast, you should start by making sure your bullet is the right size...Most likely you're good with a .358 bullet, but you never really know until you check by slugging the bore, which is ultra easy to do with a DW pistol...

Develop your ammo with a chronograph and you should be able to hit out to 400 yards with a "standard" magnum revolver....Like Elmer said..."Just hold up more front sight".....

CQB45ACP · Jan 10, 2021

AJC1 said:
I've shot my dads 686 six inch with ramshot enforcer loaded with 158 xtp and would hit 4 or 5 of 6 at 100 on a full size steel siloette. That was a few years ago before he passed so I dont have his exact load. Wish I had better details to pass along.

Nice story, nice memory.

Varminterror · Jan 10, 2021

What’s your cylinder length (sidewall) in your DW? In other words, how long can you seat?

I shoot drawn 180grn Hotcors in my 357/44B&D at max length for my Redhawk cylinder. The back pressure is considerably reduced, so I can pack a bunch more powder before exhibiting signs of excessive pressure, yielding considerably higher velocity. The 357mag case isn’t as large, but benefits more from extra horsepower.

Long range handgun loads.

brutus51

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