If I remember correctly 1/2 of the load books say small mag and some say small pistol. In all my loads I have used mag primers. None of my loads were at max. Hornady 7, Speer 12, Sierra and the Aliant load guide shows a mag primer. Lee and Speer 14 show a small pistol.
I have seen several tests through the years in Handloader and other publications, and magnum primers + 2400 always results in a much wider velocity extreme spread, and reduced accuracy.
I want to get serious about reloading again. I went ahead and placed an order for 2000 Remington 158gr. SJHP's, 8 lbs of Alliant 2400 and 5000 Winchester small pistol primers. Those hazmat fees are killer. $40.00 .
How did you end up having to pay double hazmat fees? Did you order from Midway by any chance? They ship powder and primers from two different locations and so have to charge double hazmat. That's one of the reasons I buy components from Powder Valley.
I've seen most of the same articles as rcmodel. Speer #13 specifically has a note in the 357 section to NOT use magnum primers with 2400, citing reworked data with standard primers, as in thier testing they preformed better.
I have used 2400 with magnum primers for years. Excellent numbers over the chrono, and the accuracy is outstanding.
Tried speers reccomendation. Worked up a load using standard primers. Worked ok. Chrono numbers were good, as was accuracy. UNTIL I went shooting in 20 degree weather. Unburned powder all over, smoky as hell, and over the chrono velocity spreads were over 100.
So, back to magnum primers with that powder/caliber combination for me.
alliant 2400 tends to leave behind some residue that will find its way behind the ejector(revolvers). When you go to close your tight fitted S&W, the cylinder will not slide into the frame. This is why your use a mag primer, less residue.
My Father used to preach this all the time when it came to loading 357 Mag. I was taught that if you wanted a mild load 357 Mag, you may as well shoot a 38 special round. If you want a good 357 Mag round, then load it as it should be - ass whipping. Same thing with 44 Mag.
"If you want a good 357 Mag round, then load it as it should be - ass whipping"
Oh, I agree. I want to load them hot. .357 is a great caliber to experiment with. There are lots and lots of loads out there from mild to wild. I'll be using a Stainless 6 inch Blackhawk so, I'll have some room to play.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.