38 SPL 125GR XTP Load Data Help

[simonjester]

Looking to develop a general target shooting load for 38 SPL using 125GR Hornady XTPs and W231 powder. Trying to figure out my staring load.

Lyman shows 3.9 to 5.1 OAL 1.470
Hornady shows 4.8 to 5.1 OAL 1.450
Hodgdon shows 4.3 to 4.9 with OAL of 1.455

I'm leaning towards starting at 4.5 with OAL 1.455 and perhaps working up to 4.8 seeing which groups better...

Will be shooting out of 5.5" barrel.

 

[magyars4]

Just loaded some 125 gr played bullets in 357.
I can't offer any direct advise, but I'd go low and work up.
Good luck!

 

[1KPerDay]

Your OAL is whatever it is when you seat and crimp properly into the cannelure.

 

[simonjester]

I figured this was the case,seating to mid cannelure which worked out to 1.455. I will report back how everything shoots this weekend. Its just interesting the differences in starting and max load from all three sources.