.357 For target shooting

[ray15]

Where did you get the 1200fps number?

From murf's recommendation I quoted in the post of mine you quoted. He was saying to use W231 and crank it up to 1,100-1,200fps. I was just pointing out by the Hodgdon data he referenced in the same post 1,200fps from a typical revolver's barrel would put one over the max pressure limits for .357. I strongly suspect it is not safe in a general sense to use a charge of W231 sufficient to drive a 158gr. XTP to 1,200fps from the typical 4-6" revolver, however far from the OP's needs such a load might be. Tough guns like a GP100 may shrug it off but it seems a pretty warm recommendation.

The OP's question to me remains ambiguous. I have loads that use 38 special brass only .75" in length that push a 125gr. bullet to ~700fps. It's one of my most accurate and favored loads for my .357 mag. Max H110 with the 158 XTP is another. Would those interest the OP? I'm not sure. He may be thinking 38 special level in a 357 case that you could do with the fast powder of your choice, mid-range .357 suitable for BE-86 or the like or be amenable to a classic wadcutter alternative. Without some clarification from the OP it's hard to make more than the sort of general remarks like my first post in this thread contained.

 

[Walkalong]

A 158gr bullet @~700fps to 800fps will be a good target or range load IMO.

That range is where mine is at.

 

[Walkalong]

The OP's question to me remains ambiguous.

Which is why I suggested three different load levels, tried to cover all the bases.

 

[Blue68f100]

If your going to shoot lead in a 357 Mag at reduced loads make sure you get the 12 BH or softer, the ones use for 38spl. Normally the harder bullets will not seal off under low pressure causing leading. Or just go the HyTec coating, then you don't have to worry about it.

 

[Damon555]

is this load with 38 brass or 357

Sorry I should have specified......It's a 38 special load, not 357

 

[LUCKYDAWG13]

Ok thanks I'm looking for a target load myself but in 357 brass bullet will be a 158gr copper plated Think I'm going to start on some loads
this weekend using ether RedDot or Bullseye going to start a 3.5 gr and work my way up to about 5gr

 

[Sauer Grapes]

I shoot either RMR plated or Hornady swaged LSWC 158gr using 4.5gr American Select or 5gr Universal. If I want something ''stiff'' I'll load 8.0gr of 800x with the plated 158gr.
I don't like shooting full power loads in my mod 19-3. I shoot the 2 target loads in my mod 60 3'' 357 S&W.
Somebody mentioned 4.0grs of 231\hp38 with the wadcutter? That is one of my favorite loads in either 38 or 357case.