.38 Super & Lead Bullets

[funnelcake]

Anyone have experience with lead and HP-38/ W231 in .38 Super? I'd like to use the same MB 125gr LRN's I load en masse for 9mm.

Doing some reading it looks like HS6 might be a better choice, but I'm just looking for accurate target fodder. HP-38 has worked really well in everything I've used the stuff for to date (mostly lead bullets in .38 Special, 9mm, and .45ACP at mild-mid velocity).

I've found everything from 4.8 to 5.1gr as a starting load with 5.7-6gr max. I figured I'd start with 5.2-5.3 and if happy, just let it roll. Also, I've gotten good results loading the 9mm stuff out a little long (1.130 IIRC) so I was going to start at 1.270COL in the Super.

Thanks...Funnel

 

[springer99]

I've used HS-6 in my Super for quite some time, with both jacketed and cast SWC designs. I've found it to be a great powder for the Super and, at least with mine, it seems to perform better at higher load densities.

Your starting and max. loads seem a bit light though. I have data from Hogdgen and Lyman that show maximums with 125gr. SWC and RN that run much higher. Maybe your data is actually for a 9mm?

My favorite 125gr. cast SWC loads use a .357sized bullet, CCI 500SP primers and 7.1gr. of HS-6. LOA for me was 1.235. This load chrono's for me at 1230fps with an ES of 38fps from my 1911. I consider that a soft shooting target load, and still well below max.

 

[funnelcake]

Hey springer - Thanks...yeah, I might try both powders. The load seems light for HP-38? Agreed if you were thinking I listed charges for HS6.

Funnel

 

[springer99]

Funnel, you're right, I mis-read your message and assumed you were referring to HS-6. I never used W231 very much in my Super; I've always felt that a slower powder worked better with the larger super case.

 

[ADKWOODSMAN]

Have used AA#5 for many years. Great results.

 

[cpt-t]

funnelcake: I shoot Jacketed, Plated, and Lead bullets, both in RN & SWC`s and use Win 231 powder in my 38 Super. Usually found the sweet spot for me about 3/4 of the way up the scale using Win 231. I really enjoy shooting my 38 Super for it is very accurate. My only problem with shooting my 38 Super is I have not found any brass in my area for sale, for several years now. I use to be able to buy all the brass I needed at the local Gun Shows, but not any more.
ken

 

[funnelcake]

Thanks guys - I'll likely load up 20 or so of each (HP-38/ HS6) and try out at the range.

Funnel