Bruce, I believe loading a hollow base bullet backwards has been done with the 38 with no ill results. HOwever that bullet was all in the case, so don't know if that would have an effect or not. I never tried it as I just wasn't comfortable and figured that if anything could go wrong, for me it would and that skirt would get all out of kilter and I'd ruin a barrel or gun. I think your loads are OK. I was emailing with someone who has a Smith 455 for sale and he stated his reload was 4.5 gr of Unique and a 255 lead round nose and it shot to point of aim. He made mention that the Fiocchi was too warm. I am looking at getting a 2nd Model in 455. Like I need one, right?

Tell us the source of those bullets.