Thinking about adding some new powders...

[bluetopper]

According to Phillip Sharpe, the .357 Magnum was developed with 2400, and original .357 Magnum factory loads used a “non-canister grade” 2400. So, it truly is the first magnum powder.

Yes it was the first magnum handgun powder. I also have read in more than one publication that 2400 powder was developed for the 22 Hornet rifle cartridge, very popular in the 1930's. It was so named because it could propel a 45 grain bullet out at 2400 fps. And as it turned out its characteristics suited the 357 Magnum perfectly.

 

[nofendertom]

Always had good success with 2400 for jacketed mag loads and Unique for cast bullet loads in a Winchester .44 mag lever rifle.

 

[Hondo 60]

I've used quite a bit of Lil Gun & 2400.
Lil Gun in a 44 mag gives me some "HOLY POOP" loads

2400 gives a nice thunderous BOOM, but doesn't seem to have the same recoil.

In my experience 2400 has produced a bit less velocity too.

Just my 2¢ worth
YMMV

 

[Bill M.]

Lill gun is the only powder I have loaded out of the "full power" powders. I get my best accuracy of any loads I have tried with it in both my .41 and .357 mag. I do not shoot a lot of it. But accuracy and velocity are great when I do. I keep my gun sighted for these loads and adjust POA with my everyday loads. The very old model .41 showed forcing cone erosion when I got it. I see no change from my shooting. The .357 NM was brand new and I see no evidence of forcing cone erosion or flame cutting in it. But, like I said, I do not shoot this load a lot. Couple of cylinders a year just to keep me prepared for it.

 

[kerreckt]

What in particular makes it not appropriate for revolvers? I plan to only use in a rifle, but I don’t to damage my rifle if it has the same problem(s).

I have read that it cuts into and damages the top strap of the revolver. Again, this is what I have read and heard from others. Never experienced myself.

 

[brewer12345]

2400 is my go to for 357 mag loads with jacketed or gas checked cast. That said, I did some limited experimenting with LIl Gun and 158 grain JSPs. I was very impressed with it out of my rifle. If I felt compelled to hunt deer with my 357 rifle, that combination is what I would use. With the right loads it was very accurate and the published data shows high velocities (don't own a chrono). Given all the documented revolver wear from that powder, I did some tests with my rifle and left it at that.