CTSigLover
Member
- Joined
- Oct 12, 2008
- Messages
- 55
I am looking to replicate the original .357 magnum loading out of a S&W Model 27 8-3/8" bbl. I have historical data indicating that this load was a 158 grain LSWC, 15.4 - 15.8 gr. of pre WWII vintage 2400 (depending on batch), and a large primer.
My problem is, I always try to stay within the load limits published in reloading manuals, and nothing published today even seems to come close to this load using 2400 (granted modern 2400 is different than pre war 2400, but not that much different right?).
It is a matter of record that SAAMI has reduced the maximum pressure specs for the .357 dramatically over the years, resulting in a "neutered" .357.
Yet if the gun I am shooting existed during the time the pressure specs were higher... shouldn't I be able to work up to the old recipe? If it was "safe" in 1940, why shouldn't it be safe today?
If anyone knows of published data from a reputable company which will give 1500 fps with a LSWC using 2400 out of an 8" bbl, could you please share it, otherwise can anyone tell me why I should not work up to loads published in old manuals if I am shooting an N frame Smith...
Were the .357 pressures dropped to 35K merely to allow the round to be safely fired in J and K frame .357's... neither of which I am using?
I would really prefer to stay with 2400 as I have a ton of it... and I have old data saying I can use it... but I want to be safe... what say you?
My problem is, I always try to stay within the load limits published in reloading manuals, and nothing published today even seems to come close to this load using 2400 (granted modern 2400 is different than pre war 2400, but not that much different right?).
It is a matter of record that SAAMI has reduced the maximum pressure specs for the .357 dramatically over the years, resulting in a "neutered" .357.
Yet if the gun I am shooting existed during the time the pressure specs were higher... shouldn't I be able to work up to the old recipe? If it was "safe" in 1940, why shouldn't it be safe today?
If anyone knows of published data from a reputable company which will give 1500 fps with a LSWC using 2400 out of an 8" bbl, could you please share it, otherwise can anyone tell me why I should not work up to loads published in old manuals if I am shooting an N frame Smith...
Were the .357 pressures dropped to 35K merely to allow the round to be safely fired in J and K frame .357's... neither of which I am using?
I would really prefer to stay with 2400 as I have a ton of it... and I have old data saying I can use it... but I want to be safe... what say you?
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