|
|
01-17-2021, 08:15 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Midwest
Posts: 3,624
Likes: 8,112
Liked 9,615 Times in 2,161 Posts
|
|
Finally did the deed. Need powder advice, please.
Hi folks,
Stumbled into a Lee 3-hole, and I’d like to load for 38/357 and 45acp.
Since I have ZERO powder, and will need to pay through the nose for whatever I get, could the experienced here please recommend the ideal options for those cartridges?
I don’t want to push any envelopes, just looking for an easy-measuring option that won’t confound a beginner.
Thanks !
__________________
- Post No Bills -
|
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:17 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Colorado
Posts: 15,134
Likes: 91,857
Liked 26,392 Times in 8,412 Posts
|
|
Bullseye is good for target loads in both
|
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:20 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2019
Location: Arkansas Delta
Posts: 414
Likes: 778
Liked 483 Times in 197 Posts
|
|
For 38 Special standard powder is Bullseye. NRA recommended wadcutter load is 2.7 grains Bullseye and 148 grain wadcutter.
|
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:24 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 3,723
Likes: 1,604
Liked 6,323 Times in 2,298 Posts
|
|
Bullseye is one obvious choice but I'd go with W231/HP38 (two names, same powder).
But if you want .357 loads those are a bit fast. You could do all with Unique or Universal.
Last edited by glenwolde; 01-17-2021 at 08:30 PM.
|
The Following 8 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:30 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: "Land of Disenchantment"
Posts: 3,413
Likes: 3,972
Liked 9,175 Times in 2,525 Posts
|
|
Another vote for W231 or HP38.
__________________
Only a cold warrior
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:39 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2020
Location: Beautiful Pacific NW
Posts: 1,194
Likes: 2,060
Liked 1,819 Times in 706 Posts
|
|
What powder to get depends a little on how hot you want the loads and what bullet weight you'll be using.
For those calibers I have and use Bullseye, Win 231, Unique, WST, CFE Pistol and Titegroup. None of those will really get you to full power 357 Magnum loads, but they can be used for light and mid range loads. They all work pretty well for 38 and 45 ACP. Lots of other powders that work too. If you can't find any of those, find ones with similar burn rates like Universal, Herco, Accurate #2 or #5, HS-6, etc.
First get a good reloading manual like Lyman and look up the bullet you'll be shooting for which powders are listed, then buy what you can find. If it's listed in Lyman's manual, it will work. Now is a tough time to be trying to find powder though. Best of luck
__________________
What could possibly go wrong?
|
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:39 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2020
Location: Chicago suburbs
Posts: 76
Likes: 35
Liked 100 Times in 35 Posts
|
|
Universal or 231. I have been using Unique for 40 years ( and still am) but I now describe Unique as “ dirt that burns “ I still have a few pounds of Unique to get through and hope to never buy it again.
|
01-17-2021, 08:42 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Former State Of GA.
Posts: 1,976
Likes: 3,983
Liked 2,869 Times in 990 Posts
|
|
Powder prices haven't jumped here as much as they apparently have in other parts of the country.
I've recently bought CFE Pistol and CFE 223 for around $25/lb.
CFE Pistol is quite versatile too.
__________________
GOA
USA Shooting Supporter
|
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:46 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: midwest
Posts: 1,762
Likes: 4,744
Liked 2,712 Times in 909 Posts
|
|
I see your location as "midwest" If you're close to Omaha, Guns Unlimited has had a very good stock of powder and non gouging prices.
|
01-17-2021, 08:51 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Earth
Posts: 3,222
Likes: 3,749
Liked 3,780 Times in 1,388 Posts
|
|
If you can't find pistol powder, I exclusively use Winchester WST for .38/357. My pet load is 2.7grains of WST under a 148g DEWC which chronographed at 700FPS.
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 08:56 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 3,723
Likes: 1,604
Liked 6,323 Times in 2,298 Posts
|
|
Now that I go look at some load data Universal is only going to get you maybe an extra 100fps in the .357 vs W231.
True magnum loads will need something slower. I'd stick with W231/HP38 in .45ACP and .38 Special for now and leave the .357 stuff for later when you can get another powder. You're just not going to get real .357 performance out of a powder suitable for the other two.
Magnum revolver cartridges are sort of in a world of their own.
|
01-17-2021, 08:57 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Western Tennessee
Posts: 337
Likes: 1,171
Liked 454 Times in 196 Posts
|
|
BEFORE you search for powder - Buy at least a couple of reloading manuals.
The Lyman manual (50th Edition is the most recent) covers many jacketed and cast bullets as well as the basics for reloading handgun and rifle calibres. The Hornady manual is another excellent reference.
Review those manuals for applicable powders/primers for your cartridge of interest and then go shopping.
Good Luck shopping, because pickings are pretty slim right now.
WYT-P
Skyhunter
|
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 09:43 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Reno Nv
Posts: 13,405
Likes: 3,189
Liked 12,771 Times in 5,690 Posts
|
|
Bullseye, red dot, w231 type powder works well with most lead bullets for light target work.
Unique or HS-6 will do ok with most jacket HP or SP bullets if you have any.
They all work and go bang............
good luck with one or two, that are not too hard on your wallet.
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 09:47 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Marathon Fl.
Posts: 58
Likes: 2
Liked 32 Times in 16 Posts
|
|
Titegroup works for me
[QUOTE=PatriotX;141031598]Hi folks,
Stumbled into a Lee 3-hole, and I’d like to load for 38/357 and 45acp.
Since I have ZERO powder, and will need to pay through the nose for whatever I get, could the experienced here please recommend the ideal options for those cartridges?
I don’t want to push any envelopes, just looking for an easy-measuring option that won’t confound a beginner.
Thanks !
I use titegroup with great success in both
Islander
|
01-17-2021, 10:07 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Midwest
Posts: 3,624
Likes: 8,112
Liked 9,615 Times in 2,161 Posts
|
|
Thanks for all the counsel, folks.
I bought a Lyman manual a while back, since it seemed like the correct first step.
I have a very limited selection of components, some 158gr JHP, 140-something LRN, and some 230gr jacketed ball. I’d like to make up some target loads and leave the magnum stuff for when I feel more comfortable.
__________________
- Post No Bills -
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-17-2021, 10:25 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2018
Location: East Tennessee
Posts: 1,400
Likes: 1,345
Liked 3,185 Times in 896 Posts
|
|
Agree, HP38/231 for both.
|
01-17-2021, 10:28 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Central Indiana
Posts: 1,868
Likes: 1,762
Liked 1,284 Times in 694 Posts
|
|
What about primers??
|
01-17-2021, 10:43 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Florida
Posts: 6,619
Likes: 3,397
Liked 9,286 Times in 3,487 Posts
|
|
For range/target rounds, I like HP-38, which for some reason seems to be a buck or two cheaper than 231. Primers . . . whatever you can find and afford.
|
01-17-2021, 11:08 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Midwest
Posts: 3,624
Likes: 8,112
Liked 9,615 Times in 2,161 Posts
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by MyDads38
What about primers??
|
I have one tray of SPP and one of LPP.
According to the gun show reports, that should be enough to make $400.00 worth of ammo.
Is there any reason why I shouldn’t start with 45acp? The 625 is hungry.
__________________
- Post No Bills -
|
01-17-2021, 11:10 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: Denver, CO
Posts: 1,813
Likes: 167
Liked 979 Times in 490 Posts
|
|
Bullseye, 231, and Unique will work well for you, but Unique sometimes doesn’t meter well.
Red Dot works well, too.
My advice would be to get a good reloading manual first. That will give you some more ideas. Good luck!
Last edited by scattershot; 01-17-2021 at 11:11 PM.
|
01-17-2021, 11:52 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Kalif. usa
Posts: 6,836
Likes: 2,665
Liked 3,927 Times in 2,366 Posts
|
|
W231/HP38 is a good choice for all three. Unique, universal or wsf would also be fine.
__________________
NRA Cert. Inst. IDPA CSO
|
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 12:05 AM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: Spokane, WA
Posts: 13,524
Likes: 1,184
Liked 18,473 Times in 7,310 Posts
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sistema1927
Another vote for W231 or HP38.
|
Make that three. Works well for target loads in all 3 calibers and meters nicely as well.
__________________
Send lawyers, guns & money...
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 12:11 AM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: for now ,Texas
Posts: 2,741
Likes: 186
Liked 3,300 Times in 1,525 Posts
|
|
I think it will be a matter of what you can find ? If you can't find W231 / HP-38 then I would look for Unique . It's been around since 1899 and for a very good reason . Don't load it the minimum , load the maximum and you will get more complete combustion and cleaner burning . I prefer Unique over W231 , HP-38 . Regards Paul
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 12:17 AM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Southern NJ
Posts: 4,684
Likes: 19,020
Liked 4,190 Times in 1,865 Posts
|
|
For 38 Special and 45 ACP, Bullseye and 231are perfect. Bullseye is great for powder puff wadcutter loads in 38 Special, and was part of the original charge for 45 hardball.
When looking at 357 Magnum loads, think Unique and investigate the Skeeter Loads!
231 or Bullseye, plus Unique can fulfill all of your needs and definitely outlast your primer supply!
__________________
Judge control not gun control!
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 12:19 AM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: Spokane, WA
Posts: 13,524
Likes: 1,184
Liked 18,473 Times in 7,310 Posts
|
|
FWIW, I like Unique too - but one of the specific criteria the OP asked for was "easy measuring". Inconsistent metering is, and always has been, one of the biggest complaints most people have against large flake powders like Unique. Just sayin'...
__________________
Send lawyers, guns & money...
Last edited by BC38; 01-18-2021 at 02:06 AM.
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 08:42 AM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 3,723
Likes: 1,604
Liked 6,323 Times in 2,298 Posts
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by BC38
FWIW, I like Unique too - but one of the specific criteria the OP asked for was "easy measuring". Inconsistent metering is, and always has been, one of the biggest complaints most people have against large flake powders like Unique. Just sayin'...
|
I'm surprised Universal isn't more popular. It and Power Pistol are on either side of Unique on the burn rate chart and it meters better and is much, much, cleaner. I have yet to try Power Pistol. When all this calms down I'll have to do that.
|
The Following User Likes This Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 09:44 AM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: for now ,Texas
Posts: 2,741
Likes: 186
Liked 3,300 Times in 1,525 Posts
|
|
I've never had a problem metering Unique . I use scoops . Regards Paul
|
01-18-2021, 11:54 AM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2018
Posts: 1,877
Likes: 2,257
Liked 2,961 Times in 1,103 Posts
|
|
I load those two calibers, mostly use Bullseye and Unique. The idea to study a few manuals is a good one (along with advice here), because you could make a list of possible other powders to get by with during this shortage.
Both cartridges are easy to reload. The main difference is that with 45 you will want to pay attention to the cartridge overall length (COAL) and the crimped mouth diameter - break out the calipers!
38 Special/357, I never paid any attention to dimensions other than getting a nice looking roll crimp.
|
01-18-2021, 01:24 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: illinois
Posts: 6,298
Likes: 1,850
Liked 6,696 Times in 2,119 Posts
|
|
For the calibers you listed, Bullseye, Unique, 231, 244, Red Dot and 700-X have all worked for me over the past 40 years or so. Currently all of my .38 and .45 loading involves 231. However, if that were not available, I could use one of the others.
Welcome to a great hobby and relaxation. Get some manuals and check magazine articles and such.
Last edited by max; 01-18-2021 at 01:47 PM.
|
01-18-2021, 01:36 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: Reno Nv
Posts: 13,405
Likes: 3,189
Liked 12,771 Times in 5,690 Posts
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by glenwolde
I'm surprised Universal isn't more popular. It and Power Pistol are on either side of Unique on the burn rate chart and it meters better and is much, much, cleaner. I have yet to try Power Pistol. When all this calms down I'll have to do that.
|
Universal is a twin brother to Unique and will do ok in the 38 & 357 but you should not use the Unique data with it.
Unique worked better in my 12 Ga. loads, though.
For some reason. Universal was "Dirtier" than Unique and not the same in fps with the wads and cases that I used for my trap loads in 1 1/8 oz. payloads.
|
01-18-2021, 01:45 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Micanopy Florida
Posts: 1,536
Likes: 6,645
Liked 2,476 Times in 948 Posts
|
|
Titegroup can work for 45 acp,38Special and 357 mag. while not the best for 357 mag there are some loads that be used for some bullets. Hodgdon online reloading data site can give you ideas of loads with different bullets and powders. I f you only have 200 primers you will not need much powder. You an still get powder online at a pretty good price. Primers are the issue and it seems they will be for a while.
|
01-18-2021, 01:45 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: South Central Texas
Posts: 1,185
Likes: 2,688
Liked 1,114 Times in 501 Posts
|
|
HS6+
Quote:
Originally Posted by Nevada Ed
Bullseye, red dot, w231 type powder works well with most lead bullets for light target work.
Unique or HS-6 will do ok with most jacket HP or SP bullets if you have any.
They all work and go bang............
good luck with one or two, that are not too hard on your wallet.
|
I am a big supporter for HS6. One of the reasons is that HS6 fills the .38 case/brass to greater extent than many others (high VMD). That is important in that, that makes it more difficult to end up with a double-charge that would blow up your gun. My favorite 38 bullet is 158XTP, though I am experimenting with 135grSB Gold Dot loaded for +P but not as high as OEM +P.
|
01-18-2021, 02:00 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: East of Stick Marsh, Fla.
Posts: 9,545
Likes: 5,000
Liked 21,322 Times in 6,434 Posts
|
|
Bullseye or 231 is probably all you need for almost every application that you'll need. I use Bullseye for .38 Special, .38 ACP, .45 ACP, .45 Colt, 9 MM and .32 H&R Magnum. It is great for target loads and will go a long way. Also I load the same power loading as requested by the War Department for the M1909 Colt .45 Colt with Bullseye. If it was good enough for the military back then it should work for defense or offense now.
__________________
USMC 69-93 Combat Pistol Inst.
|
01-18-2021, 02:08 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Augusta, GA
Posts: 6,127
Likes: 6,652
Liked 6,170 Times in 2,674 Posts
|
|
Bring your Lyman manual with you. Buy the powder that is available on the shelf. Look in the Lyman manual to find the load data for the available powder.
Any 4350 rifle powder won't perform in handgun cartridges. The local indoor range has all the Shooters World powders available in 1# bottles or 8# jugs. It is happy time.
__________________
S&WHF 366
|
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
|
|
01-18-2021, 02:16 PM
|
|
US Veteran
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: East of Stick Marsh, Fla.
Posts: 9,545
Likes: 5,000
Liked 21,322 Times in 6,434 Posts
|
|
Figure out what powder you want to load. Keep in mind a pound of powder in most places costs $30 to $35 a pound, or at least it does in my area. We were able to buy 8 pound Kegs of Bullseye for $180 a keg, that is $22.50 a pound. Larger quantities will usually get you better overall prices.
__________________
USMC 69-93 Combat Pistol Inst.
|
01-18-2021, 03:06 PM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: SW MT
Posts: 6,733
Likes: 10,506
Liked 6,027 Times in 2,967 Posts
|
|
Get a good manual, I like Lyman. Download some older manuals on line. Read them all you can with out looking at data. When you are confident in the process look at data.
Copy a powder burn chart and highlight what powders work for both cartridges. Take that to your local shop and see what they have.
I would recommend, Red Dot, Bullseye, AA2, AA5, and HP38/WW231 if you can find those. Ask if the powders available are flake or ball and go with ball to start as it is less easy to bridge.
__________________
Front sight and squeeze
|
01-18-2021, 04:49 PM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: May 2012
Location: S. Orygun
Posts: 2,461
Likes: 1,963
Liked 1,827 Times in 987 Posts
|
|
Look in your reloading tor powders listed for the bullet you are going to use. Look at the "fastest to mid speed powder" and make a list. Take the list shopping and don't allow any "expert" you meet at the store change your mind. I agree you won't go wrong with Bullseye or W231/HP38, but Unique or Universal are very good choices too. I discovered Universal when obumma ran and couldn't find any Unique. I soon bought 2, 1 lb. jugs then a bit later bought an 8 pounder. I use it in nearly all my handgun cartridges...
Last edited by mikld; 01-18-2021 at 04:52 PM.
|
01-19-2021, 01:53 AM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2020
Location: Beautiful Pacific NW
Posts: 1,194
Likes: 2,060
Liked 1,819 Times in 706 Posts
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Golphin
...You can still get powder online at a pretty good price. Primers are the issue and it seems they will be for a while.
|
Still get powder online? Where? I can't find any, and I check frequently.
__________________
What could possibly go wrong?
|
01-19-2021, 10:36 AM
|
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2021
Location: Southern Illinois
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
Liked 127 Times in 48 Posts
|
|
I load 38, 9, and 45 ACP. I use Unique, Bullseye, and 231/HP38. If you can get just one of them it will work in all three calibers. I have used a lot of others in the last few years due to availability but like those the most.
__________________
Ron
Southern IL
|
01-19-2021, 10:53 AM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 2,352
Likes: 5,459
Liked 2,777 Times in 1,262 Posts
|
|
I haven't seen a vote for the Accurate line of powders, #2, #5, #7 and #9. 2, I think, will cover both 38 and 357. #9 is good for hot loads. Might try them if you can get some. For me, they meter very, very well.
__________________
Just Say No - To Social Media
|
01-19-2021, 11:03 AM
|
Member
|
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 2,352
Likes: 5,459
Liked 2,777 Times in 1,262 Posts
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by DeplorabusUnum
Still get powder online? Where? I can't find any, and I check frequently.
|
Just watch ammoseek. They;'re showing a couple powders suitable for handguns right now, IMR Blue, one of the Vihtavouri powders. Not a lot, but something to keep shooting.
__________________
Just Say No - To Social Media
|
|
Posting Rules
|
|
|
|
|