I inherited my Dads reloading equipment and 2 revolvers. A Ruger Blackhawk 357 OM and a S&W 15-4 in 38. I will be getting acquainted with reloading again after many years absence. I used to load for the 243 and 06. Anyway, I have a question about Hodgdon's data for the 38 special. Using Hornady's 125 gr. XTP bullet and HP-38 powder, the loads go from 4.3 to 4.9 for standard pressure loads. Jumping up to the +P loads/load, they show the only load as 5.3
What is the reason for not using the 5.0,5.1 and 5.2 load as a light +P load. Just thinking out loud.
Thanks
Jack

Nobody wants a reduced +P load! A +P load is all about the most you can get without blowing up your revolver. There is nothing that says you can't load one, it is just they aren't wasting time printing them.

Ivan

Ok. That makes sense.

Probably because it wouldn't be +p. Not trying to ne a wiseacre here, but think about what you are trying to accomplish with your +p load. Ivan pretty much nailed it.

Since they've already given you the safe standard range, they only need to give you the load that produced +P pressure without going over . . . in their firearm. If you have a +P capable firearm, just consider that the max-max.

In my book,a Model 14 is a target gun;I only shoot .38 WC target loads in mine and it serves me very well at that.I shoot .38+p loads in my small frame(mod 13).357Mag.(I know,both are built on the same frame).
I'm not trying to be a smart a** here but the Mod 14 is such a nice target gun that I'd hate to see one being shot so much with +P loads that it'll loosen up that accuracy away.Don't read me wrong;it can take the pressure all right but since you also have a .357,am just suggesting!
Have fun and be safe.
Qc

Wecome to this site.

A note to you about Hodgdon's or any form of loading data.
Always work up to medium and top loads!!
I have found errors in almost all manuals...................

Stay Safe.

In addition to the above answers ("a down loaded +P 38 Special would be "standard pressure 38 Special"). "Normally" when there is only one charge listed that is a max. load. Reduce by 10%.

Hodgdon's on-line manual states 5.0 grains of Titegroup for the 125 JHP. I have been using Hornady bullets. Controllable load, no trouble with overpressure in my Model 10 2" revolver.

Thanks Guys. I have no intention of loading +P. I was just gathering info. I will continue to load standard loads for both and have the 357 Magnums for the 3 screw if needed.