Ping.
Accurate #5
HP-38 for my .38 spl target load. Topped with a 158 gr bullet
If the bullets are plain base(no gas check),use a quick burn powder like Bullseye or Unique.If you have gas checks on,then use something like Blue Dot in the .357 and stick with the fast powder for the .38.
I see a lot of people recommending Bullseye. You want a fast burning powder.
Bullseye
I have a model 19 S&W with a 4” barrel that shot 18” groups at 100 yards but of course I forgot what powder I used. Try different powders and find out what you and the gun like. 3” barrel may not make a difference.
I like Bull’s Eye.
Also there is a surplus (pull down) military powder called NM-4 available that is quite inexpensive and duplicates Bull’s Eye performance.
For handguns I use either Unique or Bullseye.
I also stay within the limits of the latest Speer reloading manual.
A lot of guys like to load ‘hot’ rounds but if I want to shoot something with a kick I grab my Freedom Arms 454 Casull.
I’ve been using AA5 but just for giggles I bought 2 lbs. of Power Pistol.
Seems to have a burn rate in the vicinity of AA5 and Unique.
I plan on using it in 38/357, 45acp, and 44.
Not max loads but up there.
For my 342PD .38 ultralite its strictly factory loads.
A short-barreled revolver suggests a concealed self-defense purpose. If so, using hand loads could expose you to additional legal issues in a self-defense situation. An aggressive prosecutor could argue that the hand loads were specifically loaded to inflict the most damage possible and a gun-ignorant jury could agree.
Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6 but at least be aware that the government is rarely on your side in such situations.
I dont know squat about loading except that Santa really wants to bring me some equip.
Whats a good set up?
I am looking at a dillon 550 for rifle and pistol loads and a Mec for shotgun shells
I want to load 410 buckshot .223, .308, 9mm, 45 acp and .38 special
Where can I get a cheap 110 gr .38 bullet?
158 is cheap bur just to damn heavy, making recoil suck.
Widener’s seems like the best source for supplys so far from my research
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and recommend gun powder.
For all but the 45 Colt I use Power Pistol. It was formulated for modern handguns and specifically designed for the 40 S&W. So far I have loaded for the 38 SPL, 357, 40, and 45. In all cases the velocities were excellent, the spread in velocities minimal, temperature spreads were minimal between freezing temperatures and hot temps, and pressures were within normal range by measurement of velocities and examination of casings. I’m hooked on the stuff.
I’ve got to agree with Bullseye as the best fast burning choice for very short barrels. I hate Unique because it is so dirty. I think only about half of it actually burns.
If you are loading milder rounds for longer barrels, 238 is my choice.
BTW I bought some reloads for .38 special and found some .357 loads in there.
That should have been my tip off as to poor quality control.
welp.. I was shooting a SW 442, bam! bam!...stop...
The trigger wouldn’t move, I couldn’t swing out the cylinder..
WTF? Who ever loaded them missed the powder,it was primer only.
It was just enough to lodge the bullet between the barrel and cylinder.
I tossed them out
BTW I find 158 grain brutal in an airweight .38
Where can I get the 110 loads? I know I asked that earlier, but inquiring minds really want to know!
Pick one that lists your bullet type and weight. Select a powder that has loads designed for your revolvers, Load, shoot. Redo.
Any one of many will do just fine.
Generally, faster powders work well in short barreled guns and lighter bullets.
Pay attention to powder measurements and OAL.