Loading an older revolver

[TeamPrecisionIT]

I have a 1946 S&W Pre Model 10 Snub and want to cook up some loads for it. I have the manuals, but I want to know if you guys have any experience going real low in the charges for these older models on your reloads. I am using Unique at the moment, any suggestions as for a change in powder? Bullet suggestions?

Thanks in advance,

Damian

 

[armoredman]

That old wheelgun might surprise you. I doubt you would have to go real low, pretty much any starting load would work. Did you chekc the websites for the powder manufacturer? they almost always have online data, current and accurate. For a bullet, well, with it's age, I'll bet that baby is really familiar with 158gr lead round nose slugs, might work pretty well.

 

[rfwobbly]

IMHO there's really no need. 1946 was well into the modern steel era and the metal in that gun is probably as good as any modern gun. If you had an 1880 Colt, then we could worry. I'm with the ArmoredOne, start with any modern standard starting load.

Saying that, we must warn to stay well away from any type of "+P load". Those loads didn't exist in 1946.

 

[TeamPrecisionIT]

Well the reason I am asking is because I want to cook up some loads that are both quiet(er) and softer to shoot out of it. I am wanting to make this the starter centerfire gun I have for the new people I take to the range. It's been happening a lot lately, so that's my main concern. I understand the danger in going too low, so I was looking for some experience to be shared with some of the lower loads with Unique.

Damian

 

[Old Fuff]

For your intended purpose, try the well-proven combination of 2.7 grains of bullseye powder behind a 148-grain full wadcutter bullet - either flat or hollow base, although the flat base is easier to load. This will give you about 650 FPS out of the snubby barrel and excellent accuracy. Be careful not to double-charge cases while handloading. Seat the bullet flush with the case mouth, and use a light rolled or taper crimp.