Loading 180gr 357 Magnum in 38 Special case

[pbhome71]

I read that some folks load 180gr bullet in a 38 Special case with what seems to be at 357 velocity/pressure range. I understand that this is done, so they can chamber the cartridge into a 357 lever rifle.

I would like to here comments from folks in this forum.

TIA,

-Pat

 

[Brian Williams]

YEP just back off on the go powder a bit(not with 110 or 296) and have fun. a good rule of thumb is to look at the diference between 38 loads and a 357 load with the same powder and velocity and use about that much less from a magnum load.


http://www.reloadammo.com/38loads.htm
158 grain LSWC or LRN (Semi-Wad, Rnd. Nose or flat point)
Bullseye 3.6 gr. 810 FPS
231 4.5 gr. 830 (published MAX)

http://www.reloadammo.com/357loads.htm

158 grain LSWC or LRN (Semi-Wad Cutter or Round Nose)
(I don't recommend lead at over 900 FPS)
(unless at least using a Gas Check or copper plated)
Bullseye 6.5 gr. 1,320 FPS
231 6.1 gr. 1,075 (plated, actual in 7" bbl revolver)

 

[Ben Shepherd]

WARNING--OVER CURRENT MAXIMUMS---USE AT OWN RISK.

With that out of the way: Start out with around 11 grains of 2400 under that 180, I have worked up to 13.5 grains(carefully-with a chronograph). This was an old Elmer Kieth load.

Works well in all my guns-HOWEVER they are ALL chambered for the higher pressure 357. These loads are stiff enough, I wouldn't even THINK of launching them out of something like a k-frame 38 or the like.


Have fun-But work up CAREFULLY.

 

[bogie]

Some .38 special brass is NOT up to .357 pressures... Don't use a gun you like, wear gloves and safety glasses.