Just got Cast Performance Data (357)

I got ahold of Cast Performance for load data on the 180g LBT bullets I bought for my SP 101 .357. The goal is loads for woods carry here in the mountains, defense against black bear and mountain lions (I know, buy a .44 mag or better yet a .500 S&W...).

Anyway, I spoke with the owner and he recommended 9-11g of 2400 with standard primers for velocities of 1000-1350fps out of an 8" tube.

Also recommended is Lil' Gun 13-15g for 1250-1450fps. I was told Lil' Gun has lower pressures than the 2400 for this round... I don't know much about this powder and will try the 2400. Standard primers were recommended for both powders.

Thought I would share this info as load data was not included with the bullets. I expect to get much lower velocity out of my 2.5" snub, but I am excited to try this info as the little ruger makes for a very nice carry piece while hiking. These bullets look pretty mean!

Interesting. Where did you come up with data like that for a .38 special case? I've thought of loading up some 158g LSWC over 12g 2400 for a "38-44" load. The wife wasn't enthused with the idea of those loads somehow ending up in her little 442 .38 though so I thought better of it.

I worked up loads with the 2400, going from 9.5g, 10g, 10.5g up to the max at 11g. The rounds seemed to be quite accurate out of the ruger snub, and the recoil really wasn't bad at all. The max loads grouped around 3.5" at 15 yards from standing (good enough for predator protection, me thinks).

Sorry, no chronograph to give fps.

Paul, how did the loads work out for you? What bullet are you trying to load? I know there are other loads out there for 180g silhouette loads.