38/357

[Hondo 60]

I want to make some 38 spl +P.

My normal 38 load is 3.7 gr of Titegroup with MBC's Cowboy # 11 (158 gr LSWC 12 BHN)

I don't know what the formula is for deciding on the hardness of the lead.

I'm wondering if I can still use the same bullets or I also have .357 Action which has a hardness of 18.

Is BHN 18, too hard?

If I use 4.2 gr, the pressure should be up around 19,000 cup.

 

[ColtPythonElite]

Either will work just fine.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

You can usually push a 12 BHN bullet to 1000 fps or even a little more without leading if everything else is right. Also, some powders burn hotter than others and can "melt" the base of the bullet.

I've had a 18 BHN bullet up to 1400 fps without leading. It was a 30-30 shot in a 18.5" Carbine.

 

[Jesse Heywood]

Here's the formula. http://www.missouribullet.com/technical.php

I've used the 357 Action at pressures from 11,000 cup to 35,000 cup without much leading. Important part is how does the bullet fit the bore. The .358 dia. bullet is a good fit in my guns. Too loose and the bullet won't swell and seal the chamber & bore, causing leading.

 

[RDub]

Hi
A factory .38 Special +P load with a 158gr lead bullet is only coming out of a 4" barrel at 900 fps or thereabouts and they use a swaged lead bullet.
That bullet you are using will be just fine.