duplicate fbi load

warhorse302 · #1 09-25-2011, 10:40 PM

I would like your ideas on duplicating the 158 grain lead swhp load the fbi used, I understand it had a good reputation. I use buffalo bore 158 heavy 38 spl swchp 158 as a home protection load and would like to be able to practice with something simular.

Mack · #2 09-25-2011, 10:59 PM

Search is your friend.

Duplicating Buffalo Bore FBI Load

MMA10mm · #3 09-25-2011, 11:01 PM

Use any +P load data with a regular SWC, and you should be good. The velocity, if my memory serves, was around 850-900 fps for the FBI load.

I have a box of the Speer Lawman FBI-duplicate, and I just shoot my standard (non +P) handload for practice. It's easier on the guns, and there's just not that much difference between standard loads and +Ps (compare the load data - it's like .3 grs of most powders).

MMA10mm · #4 09-25-2011, 11:02 PM

Oops. Followed Mack's link, which he posted while I couldn't see, cause I was posting my answer, and see that the BB load is waaaay hotter than the FBI load. (Kinda makes me question why they name it that, other than marketing? I'd think they could market it better by naming it something stronger, but what do I know?)

cjw3 · #5 09-25-2011, 11:30 PM

With a 158 grain LSWC and 5.4 grains of Unique*, I get 893 fps from a 2" Model 36 and 997 fps from a 4" M&P. This has been my go-to load for 30+ years when a little extra is needed from a .38 Special. Not in the BB class, but still a good load.

*Lyman Reloading Handbook 47th edition.

ArchAngelCD · #6 09-26-2011, 02:26 AM

I did a lot of work on a FBI replica load. I use a 158gr Hornady LSWC/HP bullet, Rem, Fed or Win brass, HS-6 and a CCI SPM primer. (CCI-550) The charge I use is higher than current published limits but it's been estimated at just under 20,000 psi. Several older manuals I have actually list a max charge of 7.2gr but I don't think I would use that high a charge in a .38 Special revolver.

Here is the data but like I said, it's above published limits so be very careful when working up to the charge I list. Don't blame me or this forum if you have problems, use at you're own risk.

Winchester .38 Special +P case
158gr Hornady LSWC/HP
CCI 550 Primer (Magnum primer on this load)
7.0gr HS-6 (BE CAREFUL!!!)
COL 1.475"
4" M686 ---- 2" M640
927.0 -- AV --- 888.9
955.1 --- H --- 897.1
905.4 --- L --- 876.6
49.7 ---- ES --- 20.5
20.7 ---- SD ---- 7.9
17.0 ---- AD ---- 5.9

Hope this helps and be careful when working up to the 7.0gr MAX.

Skip Sackett · #7 09-26-2011, 05:01 AM

Go here: http://www.vihtavuori-lapua.com/pdfs...-Data-2006.pdf
Page #9 and check out the load for a 160gr Intercast bullet with N340. Now, there must be something to this load as it clearly states that all pressures are within safe limits either by SAAMI or CIP standards.

Quote:

DISCLAIMER
All of this reloading information has been provided by Nammo Lapua Oy. The data given here
were obtained in laboratory conditions following strictly the CIP (Commission International
Permanente) June 13, 1990 and November 9, 1993 rules. The listed maximum loads have been
determined according to the respective CIP/SAAMI maximum pressure specification, whichever
is lower.
These test methods have been deemed to be safe throughout the world. Pressure is measured at
the case mouth or from inside the case according to the CIP.
DO NOT ATTEMPT ANY EXTRAPOLATIONS. PLEASE FOLLOW THE DATA AS
WRITTEN.
IT IS A MUST FOR EVERY RELOADER TO READ THE RELOADING SAFETY RULES
ON THE PAGES 10 AND 11 OF THIS GUIDE.

I know that the barrel is a 6 1/2" one but still, 1100fps from a 38spl with a 160gr + bullet? Now THAT is a REAL 38spl load! Of course, and I hate to bring this up, I get that velocity from THE LOAD and a 3" barrel!

bmcgilvray · #8 09-26-2011, 08:34 AM

Here's a thread I made to the forum on data gathered over the past year or so.
Some .38 Special Chronograph Tests
Most recent efforts are toward the last of the thread.