357 Herrett help

[WestKentucky]

I have a 357 Herrett barrel coming for a contender. I’m excited about the possibility that this barrel has as a thumper round without excessive recoil. One thing that really stuck out in my mind though is that it uses .357 bullets which I have in bulk quantity, plus I cast so that’s awesome. I was considering the various bullets I have on hand and stopped mid thought when it came to using Speer shot capsules. With the much larger case capacity the shot capsules should be able to be driven faster, but I’m not so sure it’s a good idea. I would load a few and keep them handy for rattlesnakes. Has anybody tried it? Any input on loading the Herrett would be appreciated.

 

[cfullgraf]

If you look Speer's loading data for their shot capsules, none are anywhere near maximum levels for the powder used.

Shot capsules in rifled barrels are notorious for poor patterns. I suspect if the capsule is driven faster, it will disintegrate sooner and fling the pellets in a wider, less dense pattern.

Another concern would be if the capsule plug got seated past the case neck. I could imagine unpleasant things happening if the plug go stripped off the capsule under firing. Maybe it is not an issue, just thinking cautiously.

As long the cartridge overall length with the capsule plug seated in the neck fits the chamber, I do not think there would be a problem. The case neck would hold the plug in place.

Sounds like a good idea if the shot capsules can be loaded safely. Maybe someone will chime in with actual experience.

 

[FROGO207]

I have a Ruger Super Blackhawk with a 10.5 inch barrel. The faster I run the 44 shot capsules the larger the hole in the donut shaped pattern gets. Low pressure and a rifled barrel are a must.

If you look Speer's loading data for their shot capsules, none are anywhere near maximum levels for the powder used.

Shot capsules in rifled barrels are notorious for poor patterns. I suspect if the capsule is driven faster, it will disintegrate sooner and fling the pellets in a wider, less dense pattern.

Another concern would be if the capsule plug got seated past the case neck. I could imagine unpleasant things happening if the plug go stripped off the capsule under firing. Maybe it is not an issue, just thinking cautiously.

As long the cartridge overall length with the capsule plug seated in the neck fits the chamber, I do not think there would be a problem. The case neck would hold the plug in place.

Sounds like a good idea if the shot capsules can be loaded safely. Maybe someone will chime in with actual experience.