Cleanest 38 and 357 ammo for S&W 686p?

[SolidChoice]

Can anyone recommend a full-metal-jacket practice ammo that will leave the least residue and grime on a stainless steel 357 revolver (S&W 686p)? Do the so-called "clean" rounds that reduce lead exposure really keep your gun any cleaner?

 

[Sport45]

Welcome to The High Road!

I reload and really can't advise about purchased ammo, but I'd be surprised if you can find any that will leave your gun "clean". A "not so dirty" gun really doesn't seem to take any longer to clean than a "dirty" gun so I worry more about function and accuracy.

 

[RON in PA]

There is a reason that gun cleaning products are on the market, guns need to be cleaned after they are shot.

In general jacketed revolver ammo tends to shoot "clean". If you want dirty shoot lead.

 

[shockwave]

Usually, the problem is finding ammunition. Not like you're normally going to have a massive selection to pick and choose from. That said, WWB FMJ is average. The easiest way to keep the 686p clean is to keep it clean. That means you give it a thorough cleaning after each use, regardless of the number of rounds fired and don't put the gun up until it's cleaned and lightly oiled. After each 250-500 rounds, remove the crane and cylinder and perform a more detailed cleaning.

Your goal should be to practice with the gun as often as possible, and if you can, find ammo that helps the gun shoot to POA.

 

[ronto]

According to the grapevine, some* european made ammo is pretty dirty and can be corrosive if you don't clean your weapon reasonably soon after using it...I would use USA made ammo only.

* "some" means not all

 

[RidgwayCO]

The cleanest factory ammo I've ever shot, bar none, was made by Fiocchi. Their 9mm Luger and .38 Special brass looked pristine after firing (and it was accurate stuff too).

 

[wow6599]

The cleanest factory ammo I've ever shot, bar none, was made by Fiocchi. Their 9mm Luger and .38 Special brass looked pristine after firing (and it was accurate stuff too).

A big +1

 

[SolidChoice]

Thanks, everyone. I do clean my gun after every use -- I was just curious if any brand or type in particular caused noticeable difficulties in cleaning. I'll give Fiocchi a try and see if I notice a difference.