Hi,
I just purchased a Model 66-3. I am curious about the best loads. This is my first 357 magnum. I have some S&B 357 158gr. I have read that the Model 66 does not handle 357 magnum ammo. I do not shoot 1000's of rounds, maybe 500 a year (that's why I have multiple pistols and rifles right).
I reload 38 special and will be reloading 357 magnum as well. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks!

I have several K frames, 38 and 357. For general use I load a 38 case with 5.0grains of Unique and a 158 bullet; for 357 use I load the same bullet and 12.2grains of 2400, it shoots to point of aim in my non adjustable sighted k frame magnums and I dial in the others.

A 158gr SWC @ 1000fps will handle 99% of your handgun needs. Little or no wear on your magnum frames.

The best info suggests that about 10-15% of your use can be Magnum ammo. The rest should be .38.

But a general use revolver normally needs no great amount of firing with full loads. Small game and practice, even most defense in urban areas, can be handled with standard or Plus P .38 cartridges. And the M-66 is handier than the more robust revolvers that will endure more shooting with .357 loads.

I think you'll be very pleased with it. Just avoid 125 grain and lighter bulets, as they have a greater pressure curve and more ejecta from the case to wear the forcing cone. 140-158 grain bullets are the answer. Some like 180-200 grain handloads for use against attacking bears, but I think the better 158 grainers will suffice. In the two bear attacks that I know of where .38 and .357 guns were used, the 158 grainer killed the bear. One was a grizzly savaging a ranger, and the other was a polar bear in a zoo. Of course, placement counts.

T-Star

OK great, thanks for the info!

I have a dumb question -

Would you also stay away from 125 grain .38 loads for this gun? I'm handloading jacketed 125 grainers down to about 930fps in my 6" 686P. Should i just stick to the heavier bullets for .38 as well in the 19/66?