I've been playing with some snake shot loads for my 5 1/2" 44Mag Redhawk and think I'll share the results.
Naturally, as this is pure foolishness and not sanctioned by SAMMI or other experts, proceed at your own risk.
In addition to the ordinary goodies, you'll need some #7 1/2 bird shot, gas checks and thin card stock for a wad.
My powder charge is 5.4gr of WST. I worked to this charge to give me the best pattern, YMMV.
Grab an old case and size. Using a file, sharpen the mouth so you can use it as a punch. Using the sharpened case and rubber hammer, punch the card stock, being careful you don't damage the bench top (ask how I know this
)--do it on cardboard.
Size, prime and drop powder charge. Insert wad over charge and using punch or other rod, gently seat the wad down to the powder. I use a delrin sight punch and push it down so the powder is compressed. Fill the case with shot just short of the top. Place gas check on top of shot, cup end up and press down so check is even with case mouth. Crimp to lock together. I found placing gas check cup up worked much better for me than cup down.
Load shoots well in my gun, giving me a dense 9" dia pattern to POA at 10 feet and a nice 18" pattern at 7 yards. I'm hoping to do some penetration tests this weekend with a phone book.
Naturally, as this is pure foolishness and not sanctioned by SAMMI or other experts, proceed at your own risk.
In addition to the ordinary goodies, you'll need some #7 1/2 bird shot, gas checks and thin card stock for a wad.
My powder charge is 5.4gr of WST. I worked to this charge to give me the best pattern, YMMV.
Grab an old case and size. Using a file, sharpen the mouth so you can use it as a punch. Using the sharpened case and rubber hammer, punch the card stock, being careful you don't damage the bench top (ask how I know this
)--do it on cardboard.Size, prime and drop powder charge. Insert wad over charge and using punch or other rod, gently seat the wad down to the powder. I use a delrin sight punch and push it down so the powder is compressed. Fill the case with shot just short of the top. Place gas check on top of shot, cup end up and press down so check is even with case mouth. Crimp to lock together. I found placing gas check cup up worked much better for me than cup down.
Load shoots well in my gun, giving me a dense 9" dia pattern to POA at 10 feet and a nice 18" pattern at 7 yards. I'm hoping to do some penetration tests this weekend with a phone book.
