My 357 Wadcutter Magnum Velocity Data

[bluetopper]

Been wanting to do this for a while as 148gr hard cast DEWC data out of a .357 case at magnum velocities is quite limited from what I have seen.

I worked up some loads and chrono'd them and thought some of you might be interested in the results. As you might guess, these are extremely hard hitting rounds.

I seated the 148gr DEWC out to the first crimp groove and used my Smith model 686-3 with a 6 inch barrel.

6.2gr Universal powder averaged 1283fps.

13.3gr of 2400 averaged 1380fps.

16.0gr of W-296 averaged 1425fps.

15.7gr of AA4100 powder averaged 1505fps.

With the exception of Universal, the remaining powders are of the same volume, but different weights of course. This quantity I decided upon because it was the largest capacity on my Lee disc that I was certain not to compress the powder.

No over pressure signs were noticed in the loads at all and the bore looked shiney clean after all testing with no visible leading. Bullet size is .358". Brinell hardness claimed by manufacturor is 17.

Thanks for looking.

 

[John Wayne]

How was accuracy?

 

[bluetopper]

I didn't load up enough to check group sizing, just a few to check through a chronograph. I wanted to check for over pressure signs before I loaded up a number of them.

 

[ThomasT]

Looking at the starting loads for a 146gr jacketed bullet using 296 and 2400 you are right at the starting loads for that bullet. Your WC bullet seats much deeper in the case and could raise pressures enough to damage your gun.

I realize you have got away with it so far but I think if it were me would back off a little. I like WC bullets too, just be safe.