Mo Bullets 38 Sp 158 RNFP Data

[12Bravo20]

I just picked up a bock of Missouri Bullet 38 Special coated 158 grain round flat point bullets. I did a search but didn't find anything. Should I just stick with Hodgdon data for Universal powder and 158Gr LSWC bullets?

This is my first time reloading 38 Special but have been reloading for my semi-auto pistols for years.

Thanks.

 

[Tallinar]

Lyman 49th and 50th books have load data for #358665 158gr RNFP. Should be pretty darn close to Missouri Bullet Co's #358158 ("Cowboy #15").

I'd start there.

 

[12Bravo20]

Lyman 49th and 50th books have load data for #358665 158gr RNFP. Should be pretty darn close to Missouri Bullet Co's #358158 ("Cowboy #15").

I'd start there.

So does my Lyman 47th edition but it doesn't list Hodgdon Universal powder.

 

[12Bravo20]

I should have just looked at my Hornady reloading App. I always forget that I have that installed on my tablet.

 

[Tallinar]

So does my Lyman 47th edition but it doesn't list Hodgdon Universal powder.

Oh, I didn't realize you were inquiring specifically about that powder.

From Lyman 49th and 50th:

#358665, 1.445" OAL
Universal powder
Starting: 4.2 grains, 760 fps, 12,500 CUP
Max: 4.7 grains, 867 fps, 15,800 CUP

 

[12Bravo20]

Oh, I didn't realize you were inquiring specifically about that powder.

From Lyman 49th and 50th:

#358665, 1.445" OAL
Universal powder
Starting: 4.2 grains, 760 fps, 12,500 CUP
Max: 4.7 grains, 867 fps, 15,800 CUP

Thank you. That is higher than both Hodgdon's data (LSWC) and Hornady's data (LSWC and LRN).

Hodgdon data: 3.5 gr - 4.5 gr
Hornady data: 3.4 gr - 4.4 gr

I know that Universal likes to be at higher charges in my semi auto rounds but I am not wanting to push the 38 Special rounds too hard since I am reloading fro my disabled wife. If Universal doesn't work out, I'll look for a different powder that is actually in stock.

I will be using these in a Taurus with a 3" barrel and a Rossi 92 lever action if that makes any difference.

 

[Tallinar]

That's interesting to see how much lower the Hodgdon and Hornady data are for starting load.

When it comes to considering "borrowing" load data from a non-exact matching bullet (i.e. 158 gr LSWC to 158 gr RNFP), I'm generally comfortable doing it as long as:

a) the weight of the bullet is the same
b) the length of the bullet from the base to the crimping groove is the same or very close to the same
c) OAL is pretty close to the same
d) I am not pushing the high end of the cartridge

In my primitive mind, as long as the bullet weight and seating depth are the same, then they should produce virtually the same pressure characteristics. There are certainly other factors that would influence pressure, I am sure, but these seem to be the big ones.

 

[12Bravo20]

Thank you again.

That is what I figured but I wanted to double check, This will be the first time reloading coated lead bullets. I always use plated or FMJ for my semi-auto loads.

 

[.45Coltguy]

OP, what other powders do you have? Universal will work just fine tho.

 

[12Bravo20]

OP, what other powders do you have? Universal will work just fine tho.

Right now that is the only pistol powder I have on hand. Well other than my Hodgdon H110 but that is strictly for my 410 shells. And NO I will not use H110 in 38 Special rounds.

And while Hodgdon Universal is not the best power for most pistol calibers, it has worked well for the widest variety that I currently reload for. I currently use Universal for 380 ACP, 9mm, 9mm Largo, 40 S&W, and 45 ACP. I figured I would stick with Universal since I have quite a bit of it and use it for all of my semi auto calibers.

I'm open to other powders for 38 Special that will meter well through my Lee Autodisk and that is actually available. Both are very important.

 

[.45Coltguy]

You should be good with Universal in .38 spl. I use it in .38 spl[and Unique], .357, .45 acp and .45 Colt. Not a thing wrong with it.

 

[12Bravo20]

Should be pretty darn close to Missouri Bullet Co's #358158 ("Cowboy #15").

The bullets I bought today are the #1 Ranger Hi-Tek. They are the same OAL as the Cowboy #15. It is nice living within 20 minutes of Graf's Reloading Supply. They are just down the street from the VA outpatient clinic so I stopped after my VA appointment this morning.

You should be good with Universal in .38 spl. I use it in .38 spl[and Unique], .357, .45 acp and .45 Colt. Not a thing wrong with it.

Thank you for that. I know Universal has worked good for all of my semi auto pistol rounds.