Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Ammunition-Gunsmithing > Reloading
o

Notices

Reloading All Reloading Topics Go Here


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 02-20-2021, 11:42 PM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default 44mag hunting loads

I was lucky to score 300 rounds of Hornady 240gr XTP JSP bullets. I've been reloading target loads for years but never any rounds for hunting. This year I decided to hunt with my 629 Classic DX. The lack of powder available is limiting me to use what I have on hand. I've got 11lbs of W231 and 4lbs of Unique. Checking my manuals, it looks like the Unique may give me a small edge over the 231. I know there are better powders out there for a good performing hunting load but I don't have that option at this point. The only other powder I have for my handguns is WSF, which I use when loading my 165gr JFP's for my 40 S&W. Any suggestions you can pass on to me will be greatly appreciated.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 02-21-2021, 12:05 AM
arjay's Avatar
arjay arjay is online now
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Colorado
Posts: 15,082
Likes: 91,551
Liked 26,243 Times in 8,376 Posts
Default

I would think a near max load of Unique would kill about anything within handgun range
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 02-21-2021, 01:28 AM
Benchrest1 Benchrest1 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: SoCal
Posts: 830
Likes: 962
Liked 902 Times in 444 Posts
Default

Unique is one of the best all around powders you can use with a 44 mag.
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #4  
Old 02-21-2021, 02:01 AM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,605
Likes: 3,691
Liked 7,167 Times in 2,995 Posts
Default

I have taken several deer with the .44 magnum in revolvers and a rifle. I strongly suggest that for hunting loads you forget Unique and 231 and find a can of 296/H110 and use 24-25.5 grns with your bullets. I know this isn’t what you want to hear but powders are out there and one pound of powder is going to be a small investment in your quest for a deer compared to your other expenses. You owe it to the game animals to use enough gun.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #5  
Old 02-21-2021, 02:25 AM
BLUEDOT37's Avatar
BLUEDOT37 BLUEDOT37 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: N.E. OKLA.
Posts: 6,460
Likes: 5,857
Liked 9,264 Times in 3,478 Posts
Default

240gr JHP, Unique @ 10.7gr is max in Hornady #8, for 1200mv/766me.

Should work within reasonable range.

.



.
__________________
Waiting for the break of day
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #6  
Old 02-21-2021, 02:27 AM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default

I appreciate that 296/H110 are much better suited for a game stopping load, but I check regularly and there's just none of those powders available in the Spokane area. A couple of the LGS that really catered to the hand loader have closed and gone out of business. I was looking over my supplies and seeing $14.99 for 1000 primers and $18.99 for a pound of powder. Sure glad I stocked up when I did. Too bad I didn't anticipate loading for hunting rounds back then.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #7  
Old 02-21-2021, 02:57 AM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BLUEDOT37 View Post
240gr JHP, Unique @ 10.7gr is max in Hornady #8, for 1200mv/766me.

Should work within reasonable range.




.
Great shooting. My 629 Classic DX with 6.5" barrel included a test target shot at 25yards and had a grouping of 1". The shots on my property will be between 25-65 yards. That's why I put my scoped rifle away and decided to hunt with my 629. Unfortunately the 5 point Bull elk and 6 point(160 class) whitetail buck disappeared 2 weeks before opening weekend. I'm still trying to draw a moose permit as I've got a good Bull that's been coming through, the last 3years.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #8  
Old 02-21-2021, 05:28 AM
BigBill BigBill is offline
Absent Comrade
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Planet earth
Posts: 13,869
Likes: 2,079
Liked 13,352 Times in 5,549 Posts
Default

I use 2400 for magnum jacketed bullets and unique for leadcast target loads. I get the highest mileage out of these two powders. I can load more using less powder.
__________________
Plant garlic in the fall
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 02-21-2021, 08:23 AM
gmiller0737 gmiller0737 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Jacksonville,Florida
Posts: 853
Likes: 1,064
Liked 470 Times in 283 Posts
Default

I normally Load 2400 Powder for Hunting Loads but of the 2 Powders You Have on hand Unique would be the best choice
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #10  
Old 02-21-2021, 03:13 PM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,605
Likes: 3,691
Liked 7,167 Times in 2,995 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BLUEDOT37 View Post
240gr JHP, Unique @ 10.7gr is max in Hornady #8, for 1200mv/766me.

Should work within reasonable range.

.



.
Good shooting but if you chronograph your load you will probably see that actual velocity from your revolver is about 900 FPS, not anywhere near 1200 FPS. Not a deer hunting load in my opinion. Too many handloaders read the velocities listed in manuals and ignore the fact that the data came from long test barrels and are frankly, overly optimistic. Lyman data shows a max charge of 12.2 grs of Unique with a 240 gr JHP at 1047 fps from a vented 4” test barrel and 13.0 grs Unique with a 245 gr cast bullet at about 1145 FPS. All handloaders should own a chronograph to learn what their loads actually achieve in real firearms.

Last edited by alwslate; 02-21-2021 at 07:49 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #11  
Old 02-21-2021, 03:30 PM
Flincher Flincher is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Feb 2021
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Liked 3 Times in 1 Post
Default

During the last shortage If I was out of power for a certain purpose I would write down my 4-5 top choices (some unfamiliar) so that if I saw power somewhere I already knew it could work. Sometimes V110 might sit on a shelf because it is less popular for a 44mag even though it is one of the best.
.02
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #12  
Old 02-21-2021, 03:30 PM
mikld's Avatar
mikld mikld is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: May 2012
Location: S. Orygun
Posts: 2,461
Likes: 1,962
Liked 1,827 Times in 987 Posts
Default

I don't think "normal" hunting rounds need to push the upper limit of charges. A whole lot of game has been taken with 44 Specials. I would use Unique to give a velocity high enough for the HXP's velocity threshold at the distance you will be shooting at (50 yds?).

Not an answer to your question, but I have been reloading 44 Magnums for a long while and for my hunting ammo I normally go with a 250-265 gr cast bullet (I like Ranch Dog design RNFP, accurate and efficient in my 5, 44 Magnums).
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #13  
Old 02-21-2021, 05:32 PM
cowboy4evr cowboy4evr is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: for now ,Texas
Posts: 2,738
Likes: 185
Liked 3,297 Times in 1,523 Posts
Default

I would suggest loading just a few rounds of Unique starting with 9.5 , 10.0 and 10.5 . Then do the same with WSF and see which one is the most accurate . I am a real fan of WSF , but still keep Unique too . Every gun is different . Let it tell you which load it likes the best . Any of those loads will serve you well , given the right shot placement . People have " supposedly " taken deer with a 45 acp , 230 gr @ 850 fps out to about 30 yds . Regards Paul

Last edited by cowboy4evr; 02-21-2021 at 05:35 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #14  
Old 02-21-2021, 05:54 PM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by mikld View Post
I don't think "normal" hunting rounds need to push the upper limit of charges. A whole lot of game has been taken with 44 Specials. I would use Unique to give a velocity high enough for the HXP's velocity threshold at the distance you will be shooting at (50 yds?).

Not an answer to your question, but I have been reloading 44 Magnums for a long while and for my hunting ammo I normally go with a 250-265 gr cast bullet (I like Ranch Dog design RNFP, accurate and efficient in my 5, 44 Magnums).
My wife picked up one box of 250 gr of Hornady XTP's so I'll check out some of the data for that bullet as well. My longest distance would be 65 yards. I just installed a Vortex Venom on my 629 after this past hunting season. We will be snowed in for a couple of more months before I can get out for some serious test shooting.

Last edited by Dragonwing; 02-21-2021 at 06:17 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 02-21-2021, 06:14 PM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by cowboy4evr View Post
I would suggest loading just a few rounds of Unique starting with 9.5 , 10.0 and 10.5 . Then do the same with WSF and see which one is the most accurate . I am a real fan of WSF , but still keep Unique too . Every gun is different . Let it tell you which load it likes the best . Any of those loads will serve you well , given the right shot placement . People have " supposedly " taken deer with a 45 acp , 230 gr @ 850 fps out to about 30 yds . Regards Paul
I always start a new load charge of powder a little below the midway charge and just below the maximum safe range. I usually end up somewhere in between for the most accurate loads. I haven't noticed much loading info on the WSF I have. I'll do a little more searching for using it in heavier bullets and larger calibers.
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 02-21-2021, 08:35 PM
STORMINORMAN STORMINORMAN is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 2,106
Likes: 1,154
Liked 1,383 Times in 835 Posts
Default

Hornady's Performance chart for that specific bullet shows effective velocities from 900 fps on up... And up, and UP...!

If you don't want to go with UNIQUE, the WIN 231 load in Hodgdons shows well in excess of 1200 fps for the very similar Nosler 240gr JHP. Both bullets have cannelures and are described as hunting bullets.

Within 100 yds that surely ought to work as designed?

Cheers!
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #17  
Old 02-21-2021, 09:05 PM
rays44 rays44 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: NJ
Posts: 186
Likes: 49
Liked 158 Times in 83 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Benchrest1 View Post
Unique is one of the best all around powders you can use with a 44 mag.
I agree. That said, not the best choice for your application, but it will work. The XTP operates well between 800 and 1500fps. 9 to 10 grains of Unique will get you 900-1000fps in most 6" revolvers. No need to go any higher. You don't have the right powders to safely get 1200+fps. Stay within your limitations and you'll be fine.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #18  
Old 02-21-2021, 09:57 PM
ddixie884's Avatar
ddixie884 ddixie884 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Avery,Tx
Posts: 2,563
Likes: 3,812
Liked 1,860 Times in 938 Posts
Default

In normal length barrels, Unique will surprise a lot of folks. It does a very good job of giving about 90% of max velocity compared to Magnum powders. I have fired more Unique loads than any other powder. I use a lot of other powders and some do a better job in different applications. Meanwhile I keep a coupla xtra pounds put aside because it is so versatile and can be used for so many different things. I will stop preaching to the choir now..........
__________________
dd884
JMHO-YMMV
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #19  
Old 02-22-2021, 12:17 AM
muddocktor's Avatar
muddocktor muddocktor is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: South Louisiana
Posts: 5,346
Likes: 11,606
Liked 9,018 Times in 3,192 Posts
Default

To give you some real numbers, I ran some Zero 240 grain JSP bullets across my chrono loaded with 9.0 grains of Unique with CCI-300 primers a few years ago. These were shot out of my 6 1/2" barrel 629-3 Classic. The data is as follows:

Average velocity - 866 ft/sec
ES - 46 ft/sec
SD - 18 ft/sec
Temperature - 78* F

If I were loading up for hunting with those XTP bullets, I would load closer to 10 grains of Unique and maybe even a little higher.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #20  
Old 02-22-2021, 01:02 AM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,605
Likes: 3,691
Liked 7,167 Times in 2,995 Posts
Default

12 grs would bring velocity up to around 1100 FPS out of a 6” barrel and would be a more acceptable load for deer hunting.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 02-22-2021, 01:50 AM
Dfish1247 Dfish1247 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Oct 2020
Posts: 213
Likes: 24
Liked 202 Times in 90 Posts
Default

I’d think any magnum load will take a deer, xtp’s mushroom real nice, think how many were dropped with black powder long colts, 25-20’s and the like. Shot placement is what’s important.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #22  
Old 02-22-2021, 03:19 AM
BLUEDOT37's Avatar
BLUEDOT37 BLUEDOT37 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: N.E. OKLA.
Posts: 6,460
Likes: 5,857
Liked 9,264 Times in 3,478 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by alwslate View Post
Good shooting but if you chronograph your load you will probably see that actual velocity from your revolver is about 900 FPS, not anywhere near 1200 FPS.
Too many handloaders read the velocities listed in manuals and ignore the fact that the data came from long test barrels and are frankly, overly optimistic.
Hornady tested that load in a 7-1/2" Ruger Redhawk. The OP has a 6" M629.

He's not using my revolver & I didn't test that load to hunt 4-legged critters, only as a defense against 2-legged critters.

It's already been noted that it's not the optimal powder but that's the best the OP's got & should work for his needs.

.
__________________
Waiting for the break of day
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #23  
Old 02-22-2021, 07:22 PM
Shuz Shuz is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Sep 2001
Posts: 383
Likes: 178
Liked 110 Times in 66 Posts
Default

FWIW--9.5g of Unique behind a 230g 429421HP chrono'd 1061fps outta one of my 629-3 Classic DX 5" bbl guns.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #24  
Old 02-22-2021, 11:05 PM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,605
Likes: 3,691
Liked 7,167 Times in 2,995 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Shuz View Post
FWIW--9.5g of Unique behind a 230g 429421HP chrono'd 1061fps outta one of my 629-3 Classic DX 5" bbl guns.
Your load is a good example of why I generally prefer cast bullets over jacketed bullets in revolver handloads. It’s way easier to get good velocity with cast bullets. With only 8.5 grs of 231 and a 250 gr cast 429421 SWC I got 1105 FPS out of my 7.5” Ruger SBH.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #25  
Old 02-23-2021, 12:03 AM
LittleCooner's Avatar
LittleCooner LittleCooner is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Northeast Alabama
Posts: 1,267
Likes: 2,777
Liked 1,917 Times in 705 Posts
Default

I have not taken a deer yet with my 6.5" 29-2, but it has spent many hours in a tree trying to get a shot at one of our Bucks. The load I have worked up is 23.5 grains of Vihtavouri H 110 in Starline brass, using Barnes 200 grains TAX-XP solid copper bullets. great accuracy and speed is just a dab over 1400 for an average. That is one more huge hole in the front of these bullets and I expect no tracking if I do my part. The rifles went to all copper Barnes stuff 25-27 years ago and I will never shoot a game animal with a centerfire using lead bullets again.
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 02-23-2021, 12:55 AM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,605
Likes: 3,691
Liked 7,167 Times in 2,995 Posts
Default

Well my favorite .44 magnum deer hunting load uses a lead bullet. A 250 gr cast Lyman 429421 SWC with 24 grs of W296 powder. Chronographed at 1416 avg fps out of my three screw Ruger SBH with a 7.5” barrel. I have taken several Whitetails with it from tree stands. The most impressive kill was a smallish buck that was facing me at about 20 yds. The bullet struck a bit higher than I intended, breaking the jaw, damaging the spine full length and I recovered the bullet at the base of the tail. Breaking bone, penetrating a buck lengthwise, instant kill, how could you ask more of a bullet?
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #27  
Old 02-23-2021, 06:09 PM
SweetMK's Avatar
SweetMK SweetMK is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Near Roanoke VA
Posts: 1,732
Likes: 1,025
Liked 2,681 Times in 960 Posts
Default

I was reading an article about shooting a deer with a .223,, and how many say do not do it,,

Well the old 44 caliber rifles with WAY less energy than the .223 killed thousands of deer, powered by black powder.

The old 44 lever actions did not have the energy at the muzzle that the .223 had at 100 yards, and beyond,,
but, still lots of people argue against the .223,,,

The 629 with the 240 grain bullet,, and plenty of Unique will be just fine,,,

Personally,, I keep a couple boxes of factory ammo for hunting,, and plink ALL of my reloads.

I can not envision over 100 kills in the rest of my hunting time,, so I am good,,, I got WAY more factory 240 grain ammo than that,,

I will plink all of the 10 pounds or so of the Unique that I currently own,,
hopefully some of that powder will be used with bullets that I cast,, and powder coat,,,
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 02-23-2021, 08:08 PM
viceunit viceunit is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Rocky River OH
Posts: 919
Likes: 848
Liked 831 Times in 292 Posts
Default

I have only used the 429421 hard cast semi-wadcutter over 10 gr. of Unique for many years of deer hunting. On broadside shots, I have never recovered a bullet. All of the deer I have taken with this (6.5" 29-2) required only one shot. No shots were over 40-50 yards in the place I hunt.
__________________
Tony
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #29  
Old 02-24-2021, 01:17 AM
STORMINORMAN STORMINORMAN is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 2,106
Likes: 1,154
Liked 1,383 Times in 835 Posts
Exclamation Well, now...

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragonwing View Post
I was lucky to score 300 rounds of Hornady 240gr XTP JSP bullets. I've been reloading target loads for years but never any rounds for hunting. This year I decided to hunt with my 629 Classic DX. The lack of powder available is limiting me to use what I have on hand. I've got 11lbs of W231 and 4lbs of Unique. Checking my manuals, it looks like the Unique may give me a small edge over the 231. I know there are better powders out there for a good performing hunting load but I don't have that option at this point. The only other powder I have for my handguns is WSF, which I use when loading my 165gr JFP's for my 40 S&W. Any suggestions you can pass on to me will be greatly appreciated.
Well, now that you also have "4lbs. of CFE" there's that 12gr Hodgdons load for a 240 gr JHP @ 1300+ to consider...?

Last edited by STORMINORMAN; 02-24-2021 at 01:22 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 02-24-2021, 07:58 AM
dhom dhom is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Feb 2011
Posts: 86
Likes: 0
Liked 28 Times in 13 Posts
Default

One rule I have lived by for handgun hunting loads for over fifty years,,,,,,,,,,,,If using a jacketed hollowpoint bullet, load them to the top of their operating velocity [safely in your gun] because when they make contact on game they act like a parachute and slow down rapidly. If using lead use a large flat nose bullet and it will penetrate well even at middle of the road velocities.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #31  
Old 02-24-2021, 05:24 PM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by STORMINORMAN View Post
Well, now that you also have "4lbs. of CFE" there's that 12gr Hodgdons load for a 240 gr JHP @ 1300+ to consider...?
Sorry, I failed to mention it's CFE for .223 and not the one for pistols. I haven't used any yet, but I imagine the pistol powder might be different than the rifle powder. I'll have to do a little checking to make sure. Thanks.
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 02-24-2021, 07:32 PM
dla dla is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 1,100
Likes: 326
Liked 468 Times in 278 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BLUEDOT37 View Post
240gr JHP, Unique @ 10.7gr is max in Hornady #8, for 1200mv/766me.

Should work within reasonable range.

.




.
Isn't that the velocity for a 10" test barrel?

Unique is a bit too fast to be driving a 240gr pill to 1200fps from a 4" barrel. Need AA9, ENFORCER, AA4100, 2400, H110/W296, LilGun, 300, etc.
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 02-24-2021, 07:51 PM
WR Moore WR Moore is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Posts: 6,579
Likes: 1,787
Liked 5,342 Times in 2,685 Posts
Default

My latest Hornady manual lists 10.7 gr of Unique as the top load with a velocity of 1200 f/s, NOT out of a test barrel.

Decades ago I used Remington 240 gr JHPs loaded at about 1100/1150 f/s to take a number of deer with one shot kills. Yeah, factory ammo was faster, but the hand load groups were 1/2 the size of factory groups way out there. I've never shot any critters with XTPs, but media testing suggests Hornady prioritized penetration over expansion. All my shots with the Remingtons were quartering shots and penetration wasn't an issue.

Should you run across some IMR/Hogdon 4227, it's a very good choice, but magnum primers are suggested.

Last edited by WR Moore; 02-24-2021 at 07:53 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #34  
Old 02-24-2021, 11:06 PM
cowboy4evr cowboy4evr is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: for now ,Texas
Posts: 2,738
Likes: 185
Liked 3,297 Times in 1,523 Posts
Default

My " magnum " load using the Keith 245 gr swc (Lyman 429421 or HG 503) is 23.0 grs of IMR 4227 using a magnum primer . If that won't kill , get a rifle . These are fired out of a Smith 29-10 , 4" or 6.5" barrel . Regards Paul
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 02-25-2021, 01:54 AM
STORMINORMAN STORMINORMAN is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 2,106
Likes: 1,154
Liked 1,383 Times in 835 Posts
Exclamation Two different powders: CFE vs, CFE-Pistol

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragonwing View Post
Sorry, I failed to mention it's CFE for .223 and not the one for pistols. I haven't used any yet, but I imagine the pistol powder might be different than the rifle powder. I'll have to do a little checking to make sure. Thanks.
Nothing to be sorry about: they ARE diffetent powders and please, DO NOT INTERCHANGE.

Cheers!
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 03-16-2021, 12:03 AM
Dragonwing Dragonwing is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2020
Location: NE Washington state.
Posts: 56
Likes: 74
Liked 34 Times in 19 Posts
Default

I just checked out a local gun site (Spokaneguntrader), and found a guy who traded me 2lbs. of H110 for 1,000. SRP. We are both happy. I was surprised to find out we have a local "classified" for all types of guns and reloading components, and l hadn't ever heard about it. Maybe some of you guys have a resource in your area you don't know about.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 03-16-2021, 01:10 AM
Drm50 Drm50 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Monroe cnty. Ohio
Posts: 6,923
Likes: 4,410
Liked 10,022 Times in 3,676 Posts
Default

I’ve loaded 240gr JHPs / 22.5 gr of 2400 since 1964. Ended up with the Hornady 240 JHP. Tried Speer and Sierra. Hornady was softest so that’s what I went with, until 240XTP came out. Still went with 22.5gr of 2400.
I was shooting my Ruger SBH for deer. I don’t think I would use a load that stiff in my 29s. I’ve only used Unique for my cast loads.
Reply With Quote
  #38  
Old 03-16-2021, 01:44 AM
BigBill BigBill is offline
Absent Comrade
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Planet earth
Posts: 13,869
Likes: 2,079
Liked 13,352 Times in 5,549 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by SweetMK View Post
I was reading an article about shooting a deer with a .223,, and how many say do not do it,,

Well the old 44 caliber rifles with WAY less energy than the .223 killed thousands of deer, powered by black powder.

The old 44 lever actions did not have the energy at the muzzle that the .223 had at 100 yards, and beyond,,
but, still lots of people argue against the .223,,,

The 629 with the 240 grain bullet,, and plenty of Unique will be just fine,,,

Personally,, I keep a couple boxes of factory ammo for hunting,, and plink ALL of my reloads.

I can not envision over 100 kills in the rest of my hunting time,, so I am good,,, I got WAY more factory 240 grain ammo than that,,

I will plink all of the 10 pounds or so of the Unique that I currently own,,
hopefully some of that powder will be used with bullets that I cast,, and powder coat,,,
Animals are getting smarter it’s not the 223 I worry about the sound rings the dinner bell for the gut pile. If a blackbear shows up for din din your holding a 223. I butcher a blackbear once and found a perfect 30 cal middle in his hind quarter. The hunter shot him in his butt. It never expanded.
__________________
Plant garlic in the fall
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 03-16-2021, 02:17 AM
CH4's Avatar
CH4 CH4 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Mojave Desert
Posts: 10,248
Likes: 17,882
Liked 23,917 Times in 6,782 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragonwing View Post
I was lucky to score 300 rounds of Hornady 240gr XTP JSP bullets. I've been reloading target loads for years but never any rounds for hunting. This year I decided to hunt with my 629 Classic DX. The lack of powder available is limiting me to use what I have on hand. I've got 11lbs of W231 and 4lbs of Unique. Checking my manuals, it looks like the Unique may give me a small edge over the 231. I know there are better powders out there for a good performing hunting load but I don't have that option at this point. The only other powder I have for my handguns is WSF, which I use when loading my 165gr JFP's for my 40 S&W. Any suggestions you can pass on to me will be greatly appreciated.
I am in Kelso. Trade you a pound of 296 or 2400 for a pound of Unique.
__________________
213th FBINA
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #40  
Old 04-15-2021, 01:36 PM
ostlund ostlund is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: WA from MT
Posts: 249
Likes: 436
Liked 314 Times in 126 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by gmiller0737 View Post
I normally Load 2400 Powder for Hunting Loads but of the 2 Powders You Have on hand Unique would be the best choice
When you can get 2400. It is very versatile and allows a great range of velocities from 44 special to magnum. Can't do that with 296. Before I get picked on I use 296 too, it is just limited to magnum loads.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #41  
Old 04-16-2021, 11:09 AM
mtgianni mtgianni is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: SW MT
Posts: 6,687
Likes: 10,389
Liked 5,970 Times in 2,940 Posts
Default

Talk to Hornaday and find out the expected velocity to use your bullets for expansion. I think you might get there with Unique but you would benefit from a slower powder.
__________________
Front sight and squeeze
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 04-24-2021, 02:26 AM
BLUEDOT37's Avatar
BLUEDOT37 BLUEDOT37 is offline
Member
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: N.E. OKLA.
Posts: 6,460
Likes: 5,857
Liked 9,264 Times in 3,478 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by mtgianni View Post
Talk to Hornaday and find out the expected velocity to use your bullets for expansion.
I think you might get there with Unique but you would benefit from a slower powder.
That information is easily found in the front of Hornady's Reloading Manual.

The HDY 240gr XTP has a listed range of 900-2200 fps.

The suggested 10.7grs of Unique at 1200 fps should suffice.

.
__________________
Waiting for the break of day

Last edited by BLUEDOT37; 04-24-2021 at 02:26 AM. Reason: .
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #43  
Old 04-24-2021, 09:22 AM
jcelect jcelect is offline
US Veteran
44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads 44mag hunting loads  
Join Date: Mar 2000
Location: Monroeville, Ohio,USA
Posts: 2,966
Likes: 840
Liked 6,171 Times in 1,544 Posts
Default RANGE

Most of the above posts are looking at powder type verses speed for the OPs XTPs! Most are correct and usable at what MAX range!......? I use the 240 XTPs but my max range is 200yds! That is with a 29 Silhouette 10 5/8" barrel! When you get out to yardages above 100 you need power retention. Starting with a 240gr bullet at a speed of 1000fps you don't retain much at 100yds and past that it falls off very fast! I have shot more deer at less than 75yds but my longest shot was 142yds and the gun will preform at the 200yd range! And then you come on to an old buck that takes all that you have to give and keeps on ticking! ! ! Mine was a 10 point at about 75yds! He took 5 rounds in the chest cavity and the LAST was closer to the tree I was in than the distance I was off the ground!
This is 2 guys, 2 days, & 2 44mag Silhouettes!

jcelect
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Midrange 44mag loads lscocoa Reloading 38 06-20-2016 11:52 AM
Pet Loads For 44Mag? trky chsr Reloading 34 06-17-2016 10:01 PM
44mag and what powder for hunting redcar Reloading 39 11-05-2014 01:46 AM
200gr 44Mag Marlin Loads Skip Sackett Reloading 4 09-29-2010 03:20 PM
44 spcl/44mag loads Willyboy Reloading 10 10-05-2009 10:51 AM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 08:47 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)