Load Data for 173gr SWC Anyone?

[Eddietruett]

Years ago we used to cast a lot of .38 bullets and one of my favorites was the Lyman 173gr SWC. My partner and I probably shot a pickup truck load of this cast bullet. Sold all my casting equipment many moons ago and in the last year, I have gone back to lead almost 100 percent although I buy HyTek Coated Cast instead of casting myself. Recently I have been trying some of the offerings from GT Bullets. Not coated, nor are they cheap but their quality is really good. I've had great success with the 185gr Hard Cast HP and will be my deer load this year. Super accurate. I also picked up 500 of their 175gr Keith Style SWC and they work great stroked to around 1300fps with H110 and 2400, I'd like to load some down for everyday target loads but can't find any of my old data. None of the books I have now have the heavier bullets listed either. I seem to remember loading around 4gr of Unique with the 173gr but not real sure. I'd love to find a target load using Universal. It has replaced Unique for me as it meters better and shoots cleaner. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[noylj]

From Lyman #44 for .38 Special. Use heavier bullet data.

 

[Eddietruett]

That is real close. Thanks for the info. That's about what I remembered so I'm glad to know at least my memory is not totally gone.

 

[Dwb1957]

Here is a pic of 38 special from a Lyman 49th edition which includes universal powder.

 

[Ohen Cepel]

Badman Bullets makes a 230gr 38/357 if you want even heavier. Been real happy with the ones I have loaded so far.

 

[Eddietruett]

Badman Bullets makes a 230gr 38/357 if you want even heavier. Been real happy with the ones I have loaded so far.

Are you loading for 38 or .357? What kind of load are you using. I"m sure it would make a great hog bullet if you can get enough velocity for penetration. Right now I'm using 180gr coated lead and about 1250-1300fps is all I can wring out of them in a handgun. I bet the 230gr would be great out of a lever action