Using 38specials and 357mag handloads

[larry7293]

I shoot both 38specials and 357mag in my Henry big boy. I have been using a bronze brush and patches to clean the bore from chamber to muzzle. Should I be concerned about a carbon ring forming in the chamber from shooting the 38specials? I cannot see in the chamber to see if any carbon rings are forming. I see they sell chamber rods and chamber brushes for pistols. Is this something I could use to clean a rifle? Is a chamber brush larger in diameter than a bore brush? Any info is appreciated as I am new at this.

 

[earplug]

I shoot may light 38 SPL loads. I use CLP in my .357 revolver and alway run a wet patch in the charge holes and leave it wet.
I haven't had a issue with a carbon ring.
I'm sure other bore cleaners would work as well if you leave the stuff in your chamber to do its magic.
S&W used to include a mop and a cleaning rod. Take that as a clue from the factory.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

If it ain't broke don't fix it. You are not having a problem now so don't worry. If your .357 Magnum ammo starts to show resist to chamber then worry about a carbon ring.

I shoot .38 Specials in my Marlin from time to time and have no problems with a carbon ring.

 

[Dudedog]

Or you could just load .357 cases to .38 special power and not have to worry about it. I do this for my revolvers.

 

[GRIZ22]

I have never had an issue shooting 38s in any 357 revolver or lever gun. I do clean my guns on a regular basis usually right after shooting.

When I was in the police academy in 1974 I used my new S&W Model 19 to break it in. We averaged 400 rds a day and my department supplied me with one of the crappiest commercial reloads available. When I left the range I loaded with 357s and never had a problem. I gave the gun a quick clean daily and never had any issues.

( unnecessary comment deleted ) bikerdoc

 

[RealGun]

1. Clean with a bore snake so the crud isn't pushed back into the action. You could stuff a rag in the action while scrubbing lead with a rod. If you use white, like a tee shirt, you will see lead flakes.
2. To ease your concerns, you could make a dummy round of 357 to test how it loads.

 

[Englishmn]

Shoot a box of blazer .38 spl lead round nose and try to chamber a .357 after.
I couldn't in my revolver.