.38spl 158gr SWC, Accurate#2 load recipe

[MoreIsLess]

I just bought some 158gr .38 spl semi-wadcutters after previously using DEWC's only. I have found the ranges specified in the AA tables to be too low for my Security Six, at least for DEWC's, so I am reluctant to rely on thier charts for SWC's

Can anyone suggest a recipe for .38spl 158gr SWC using Accurate#2. These are solid/flat base not hollow base

 

[Mauser lover]

Check another reloading manual... Safest way to get load data.

 

[mdi]

I just bought some 158gr .38 spl semi-wadcutters after previously using DEWC's only. I have found the ranges specified in the AA tables to be too low for my Security Six, at least for DEWC's, so I am reluctant to rely on thier charts for SWC's
Can anyone suggest a recipe for .38spl 158gr SWC using Accurate#2. These are solid/flat base not hollow base

Don't really understand your first paragraph, sorry. Ranges, do you mean min to max. powder charges? AA as in Accurate Arms powder? http://www.accuratepowder.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/accurate_load_data_3.5.pdf look here for AA#2 data. Don't understand how loads would be too low for any particular gun, especially a revolver. Are you looking for a self defence load, +P?

 

[Walkalong]

If it were me, I would start with 3.8 Grs and work up to say 4.0 Grs AA #2 with a 158 Gr lead bullet seated the the crimp groove.

If I were you, I would find a Lyman #49 and get some data.

 

[Steve C]

Since you are shooting your .38's out of a .357 mag (SAAMI 35K psi), overpressure with published loads isn't a concern. Data published for the .38 spl +P on line by Accurate in 2000 showed more stout loads with 158gr LSWC bullets than what you currently find in their data which shows this bullet for standard velocity only.

I'd run 4.5 to 4.7 grs to get a heavier +P load more appropriate to a Ruger .357 mag. Pressures are well below the 20K psi max for the .38 spl +P. See the data below.

 

[MoreIsLess]

Ranges, do you mean min to max. powder charges

yes, exactly.

In looking at the tables provided in your link, they are showing the min/max to be 2.6/2.9 for 148gr wadcutters. The last time I loaded 148gr DEWC's, I found even 3.0gr to be very light. That said, I noticed that their min/max/range, etc. are for 148gr bevel base wadcutters and mine are solid based DEWC's. Don't know if that makes a difference or not.

 

[mdi]

Most loads listed for wadcutters is pretty light, because of the nature of wadcutters; target shooting where you just want the bullets to reach the target consistantly. No need for penetration or expansion of wadcutters so light loads are best. Hollow based wadcutters need light loads because of the bullet's skirt. I've read reports (and in reloading manuals) that separation of the bullet skirt and body is possible with heavy loads; a dangerous condition. Honestly, I can't think of a load being "too light" for a revolver except a load so light the bullet fails to exit the barrel.

Other posters have given you info on loads for a 158 gr. SWC, and I also suggest Lyman's Cast Bullet Handbook for a bunch of info for shooting lead bullets and load data, but I'd switch to Unique or Universal...

 

[MoreIsLess]

If it were me, I would start with 3.8 Grs and work up to say 4.0 Grs AA #2 with a 158 Gr lead bullet seated the the crimp groove.

If I were you, I would find a Lyman #49 and get some data.

I have Lymans #49. It doesn't show anything for AA#2 and 158gr .38spl. AA#5, yes, but not AA#2.

 

[dsb1829]

Accurate data for #2 and 158g swc is on the light side. Even using a mid-range load I only hit a 115PF IIRC. I would have to look at my notes for specifics, but it doesn't sound like it would make much difference for you. AA#2 is great for plinking and shooting games. I would look elsewhere for a harder hitting powder.

 

[rcmodel]

I agree AA#2 is too fast for heavier .357 Mag or +P .38 Spl loads in a .357 gun using 158 grain bullets.
That is why you aren't finding any data you think is hot enough.

You need a slower powder like AA#5, Unique, HS6, etc.

AA#2 is light target load powder.

rc

 

[pete950]

I run 4.0 with the 148 DEWC and 4.4 with 158 SWC