Loading for 429 DE

The cartridge has been around for a couple years now. But so far, actual loading data seems to be pretty scarce. I’d be half interested in getting a barrel if I came across a good deal, but it’s never been a priority.

I have found I can make the .429’s advertised 240 gr. @ 1600 fps velocity from the .44 Mag barrel with a couple published loads anyway, so I’m not sure what the .429 would gain me. ETA: this was from a 10” barrel. But I have gotten slightly over 1500 fps from a 6” barrel.

Then again, it would be interesting to see if someone could (safely) hot rod this thing. The older .440 Corbon reportedly pushed a 240 gr. bullet to 1800 fps from a 6” barrel.

As for actual data, the closest I could find was someone doing some Quickload workups over at https://www.sporterizing.com/index.php?/topic/12613-429-desert-eagle/. The 2nd page of the thread has some chrono data topping out at 1500 fps. So again, still in .44 Mag territory.

I may still get a barrel eventually. But I would like to see some actual load development first. I have a funny feeling this one won’t be around all that long. I would consider it still halfway in wildcat territory.