I have found some reloading data online, but for some reason I cant seem to find the cartridge over all length. I have some Starline .41 special brass that is 1.145 in length, and if you load the bullet to the cannilure it comes to 1.500. I would really like to know what is the right length for these cartridges. Thanks.

The correct OAL is whatever you get when you crimp in the crimping cannellure provided by the bullet manufacturer or bullet mold maker. Revolver OAL is a result of the case length and bullet used! It is not a specification!

Maximum OAL is a different thing, and few bullets will even come close to this when crimped properly. The maximum OAL for the .41 Spl. is approximately the same as for .38 Spl. and .44 Spl. 1.550" for the .38 and 1.615" for the .44. For practical purposes, if it doesn't hang out the front of the cylinder it is short enough!

I am not intending to criticize you, just state a fact! Slavish adherence to inconsequential details like OAL for revolver cartridges is a clear indication of a new handloader that does not yet understand the process!

Buy some loading manuals and study them, DO NOT attempt to learn to re-load ammunition by asking questions on the internet. Many of the responses you will receive are posted by "keyboard jockeys" who know no more, or often even less, than you do, but they will seem to be authoritative!

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Gunsmithing since 1961

If seating the bullet (or whatever bullet you use) comes to 1.500" then that's the COAL" for that type/style bullet. If it loads in your chambers, without restrictions, then you're good to go.

Don't get hung-up on an exact COAL". If it's an odd style bullet, that seats deeper than a normal bullet does, would be of more concern to me.

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Waiting for the break of day

If you read your reloading manual's you will find using the lowest charge of any powder and then reduce that by 10%, you will have your reloading start for the 41 special. I am 70+ and have been loading 41s for 35+ years.
I find tight group to be exceptional for mild but good loading.