What have been your experiences using Herco with cast bullets in 357 Magnum? I have Lyman reloading data. Bullets which I intend to use are 158 gr SWC and Keith 170 gr 358429. I’m looking to obtain velocities between 1,000-1,100 FPS in my Ruger Blackhawk 4 5/8 inch revolver.

Appreciate your help

Thank you

I have loaded no .357 cartridges in several years, preferring .38 Special in my .357 Magnum revolvers. However, I have a good bit of .357 brass and decided recently to try some reduced loads.

I have some .357/Herco test loads awaiting my next chance to get to the range. I tried Herco in the .357 on a limited basis in the past without much success from an accuracy perspective using the H&G #51, 160 gr. SWC. My current test loads with the same bullet are loaded to a bit lower velocity than what you anticipate with your loads.

My notes indicate I've never tried Herco with the #358429 in either .38 Special or .357 and I haven't used that bullet at all in quite a while. However, I've had very good results with Herco in 9mm and .44 Special using cast bullets. Good luck with your loads-

In the past I have used Herco in 357 magnum using the 358429 with good results . I used older load data . Regards Paul

I had very good results with Herco and the 195 gr 358430. I didn't go lighter than the 358429.

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Front sight and squeeze

Heco works very well with the .357 Magnum loads.

My old 1970 Lyman manual list the 158gr #358156 bullet with a
Factory Duplication load with Herco at 1388fps.

Current Lyman data shows much lower...I heard that Herco has a tendency peaks very quickly in the old loads. I’m thinking of starting at 6.3 grs with the 358429...should get me a little over 1,000 FPS which may be fine if accurate enough.