Minimum JSP load in .38 special revolver

[JJE]

I am making my first batch of ammo. I will be loading .38 spl, .357 magnum and 9mm on an RCBS turret press.

For my first batch, I want a light load with a 125 gr JSP bullet for a S&W Model 10 snubby .38 using Win 231. This gun will shoot +P loads, but what I want is a light, standard pressure load.

My problem is that my 2 manuals have wildly different minimum loads for a 125 gr jacketed bullet. The .38 special section of Speer #13 says to not load a 125 gr jacketed bullet with less than 5.6 gr 231, because of the risk of the bullet sticking, and that this load cannot be used in rifles. (This appears to be a +P load.) On the other hand, Lyman Pistol & Revolver also notes the potential for light jacketed loads to stick in barrels, but has a much lower starting load of 3.9 gr 231.

Since the Model 10 has a 2-1/2" barrel, I assume that it can handle a lighter load than the 6" test barrel used by Speer. Lyman used a 4" barrel, which maybe explains why they have a lower starting load. I was hoping to start at 4.5 gr 231 and I'm going to examine the barrel after each shot for stuck bullets or jackets. Any experience with a load like this?

 

[GooseGestapo]

Since no one else has anwsered your question, I'll anwser.

The 3.9gr load will work, but your choice of 4.5 will be better. The 890fos that Lyman lists as a top load with #231 is a plus-P, but barely.

FWIW; Lyman lists using a 4"bbl.

I usually load HS-6 with the 125's, and get near 1,100fps.

Consult the Hodgdon manual, for max loadings, and you can use the HP-38 data for the Win#231. (HP-38 is made for Hodgdon at the Primex St.Marks, FL plant- same one that makes #231. The large cannisters that Primex ships to Hodgdon carry #231 lot#'s.)

This should alay your fears of "sticking" a bullet.

 

[JJE]

Thanks Goose,

The 4.5 gr W231 seemed to be safe, but this being my first batch and all, I wanted some confirmation. In the future, I'll probably use the jacketed bullets for .357s and get some wad-cutters for the .38.

 

[EddieCoyle]

For non +p target loads, I use the 125gr Montana Gold TMJ over 4.5 grains of 231. It's a very accurate and mild load.