Nightcrawler
Member
So what's the range on .357 loads? Revolver in question is a GP100, which I've decided that, lacking a .357, I need to get.
I generally like heavy bullet weights, and that stems from learning to shoot pistol on a .45. Most of the defensive loads in .357 are 125 grainers, but I've heard those have lots of flash and noise.
I like what I hear about Georgia Arms' "Deerstopper" loads. They replicate the original powerhouse .357 loads, and the GP100 is easily as strong as the old N-frame revolvers the .357 Magnum round debuted in. Must be fun to shoot, and I can't wait to try some.
But what about 180 grain and up? What's out there? I know there are a few hunting loads. Anybody handload these? Anybody make a "defensive" load using a 180grain or heavier bullet? What kind of velocity do you like?
180 grains at 1200fps or so sounds good. That's what your typical, lukewarm 10mm 180grain load is, and that generates 575 foot pounds of energy.
Your basic .45 Super 230 grain load pushes the bullet to 1150 feet per second, which beats the 180/1200. Is there a .357 load comparable to that? 200+ grain bullet at 1200+ FPS?
I generally like heavy bullet weights, and that stems from learning to shoot pistol on a .45. Most of the defensive loads in .357 are 125 grainers, but I've heard those have lots of flash and noise.
I like what I hear about Georgia Arms' "Deerstopper" loads. They replicate the original powerhouse .357 loads, and the GP100 is easily as strong as the old N-frame revolvers the .357 Magnum round debuted in. Must be fun to shoot, and I can't wait to try some.
But what about 180 grain and up? What's out there? I know there are a few hunting loads. Anybody handload these? Anybody make a "defensive" load using a 180grain or heavier bullet? What kind of velocity do you like?
180 grains at 1200fps or so sounds good. That's what your typical, lukewarm 10mm 180grain load is, and that generates 575 foot pounds of energy.
Your basic .45 Super 230 grain load pushes the bullet to 1150 feet per second, which beats the 180/1200. Is there a .357 load comparable to that? 200+ grain bullet at 1200+ FPS?