.380 Bullets for .38 Special Load?

[Anmut]

I've got a ton of cast .380 that measures .356/102g and a hungry .38 Special revolver that shoots .358 size bullets.

What are the thoughts on using a bullet that's .002 small? The revolver is a +p rated with a 2" barrel, so pressure and leading aren't really a concern if I load light. My initial thoughts are that the bullet might not seat into the rifling all the way and therefor not stabilize properly.

 

[rcmodel]

Loaded light, you will get gas blow-by and leading.

Loaded hot enough to 'bump' them up to fit the chamber throats and they will work as fine as 102 grain .38 Spl bullets can work.

They will not shoot where the sights are looking due to the light weight though.

And you will likely have problems with case neck tension unless you turn your expander down a couple thousands smaller.

However, the only sure way to find out is to try it.

rc

 

[horsemen61]

RC is right as always what is the Bhn of the bullets

 

[murf]

use a 9mm sizing die after the 38spl die to size the front part of the case to accept the .356" bullets.

murf

p.s. you will also have to use a 9mm expander in stead of the 38 special one.

 

[Reefinmike]

Lee 102gr mold? I have the same one which conveniently drops at .358. They are a hoot to shoot loaded above three grains of hp38. in a snub it feels like you are shooting 22's, in a 6", you say "whats recoil?".

 

[Sapper771]

Paper patch . LoL

 

[4895]

It won't work. Don't bother. IMHO.

 

[41 Mag]

Like was mentioned, size your cases appropriately, hope for the best.

If your really lucky your barrel will look like this after a few rounds, (this one has over a hundred rounds through it BTW)

If not it will be more like this, (this was after only 4 rounds)

Personally I would lean more towards the latter, but no way to tell till you try it and see....

 

[Rule3]

Great pictures. You have access to some high tech GE camera or electron scope or something??

 

[orionengnr]

Or an aircraft engine borescope?

 

[Archie]

It will work okay.

Like RCModel said, the light bullet will cause a different bullet strike, but for practice and plinking, shouldn't be a major problem.

Use a fast powder and crimp well. You may have to experiment a bit for 'best' results. As mentioned, you don't want the bullet 'loose' in the case mouth.

 

[41 Mag]

Pics were from an AWESOME borscope. It was just a one time right place at the right time thing. Wished I could have done all my firearms, but only had the couple. Still I'm happy with those shots.

I've looked hard at some thinking , one day, but they weren't anywhere in this class.