Need .38/40 load inf.

[Johnny Guest]

I just obtained a 1903-vintage 1873 carbine in .38 WCF. It is mechanically perfect, with a very good bore. I'd like to shoot it and perhaps even hunt with it.

Since factory Winchester ammo --180 gr JSP-- is around $40 a box in my area, I'm already on the loookout for dies and such.

The problem is this - - I can't find much data for this cartridge - - About all I see to try to use to duplicate factory ammo is the 180 gt Sierra JHP but they don't give any rifle or carbine velocities in the pistol loading section of my Alliant handbook.

I guess I need to break down and buy another Lyman Cast Bullet Loading handbook. In the meantime, I'd appreciate any suggestions

Could you share with me some of your information? What bullet do you use? If it's cast, what diameter? How about powder and charge amounts?

I'm already aware of the inherently delicate construction of the cases, and that you can't get carbide dies to load 'em.

I'd like two levels of loads - -

1. Something suitable to shoot small whitetail deer at close range. Either cast or jacketed would be okay. A load duplicating the 180 gr factory number would probably be fine.

2. A light-to-medium plinking load using cast bullets for sure. Perhaps some of the Cowboy Action shooters would have something suitable.

Thanks in advance - -
Johnny

 

[Sunray]

Read this first. http://www.chuckhawks.com/38-40win.htm

 

[oneshooter]

I load the 38/40 for a M92 Win. I like to use Unique powder and 180gr cast bullets. 6.5gr to 8gr MAX.

Brass....http://www.midwayusa.com/ebrowse.ex...467&categorystring=9315***652***670***9013***


Bullets......http://www.buffaloarms.com/browse.cfm/4,245.htm


Dies.........http://www.midwayusa.com/ebrowse.ex...238&categorystring=9315***731***702***8344***

The rest is pretty well straight forward. Don't use too much lube or you will wrinkle the case nesks/shoulders. The M73 action is not the strongest, keep loads on the light side.

Oneshooter
Livin in Texas
Livin in Texas

 

[TonyT]

The IMR catalog or the IMR portion of Hodgdon's website lists data for Trail Boss powder in the 38-40. Hodgdons website also lists data for some of the Hodgdon powders. The Alliant cowboy action section also lists 38-40 data.