Max Velocity with Nosler 158gr Sporting Handgun in 357 Rifle?

Recruit · Mar 28, 2013

I'd like to load the referenced revolver bullet with Lil'gun in a single shot 357 rifle (23" barrel). Should I be concerned pushing velocity too high with this bullet; say in the 1800-2000 fps range? The highest velocity listed on Nosler's website is 1448fps but do not see a maximum bullet "design" velocity per se. This round would be for punching paper and I'd likely go with a premium (more premium?) bullet if hunting whitetail.

I've reloaded for handgun some but have not ventured into loading a handgun caliber for rifle yet; hence my uncertainty.

buck460XVR · Mar 28, 2013

I have have no problem pushing that bullet to carbine velocities as long as it's range use. They are accurate and shoot well outta both the carbines and revolvers. Since I use the same loads for both I shy away from Lil' Gun use. For deer tho, I prefer JSPs or XTP-FPs.

Nevada Ed · Mar 28, 2013

Most hunting bullets have a heavier copper jacket than the standard bullets and are designed for higher speeds and their
make up to work on game and not shead their lead or copper jackets, for maximum energy and penetration.

Standard bullets can be pushed at high speeds but most
will separate or blow up on game animals due to their design.

Nosler, Speer and Hornady all make hunting bullets that will not break the bank ............even a G/C Lead bullet can take game.

You can use jacket bullets for target work but lead is cheaper
and the way to go if not pushed too fast, if you have any or
if you don't want leading problems go with the good stuff.

Most pistol data shows 1450 fps...............
Some one with a rifle should be able to chime in with the figures for you, since the carbine
should be around 1800 to 1830 fps but Buffalo bore is close to 2,000, if I remember right.
Good shooting.

Recruit · Mar 29, 2013

Thanks for your responses guys.

Buck460xvr: I've heard about the Lil'gun concern in revolvers too. Whether its that big of a deal or not, I won't be using it in my 686.

Nevada Ed: You're description of concept is very helpful. I always enjoy learning concepts first and the numbers are then just details; important details, but just details.

H Richard · Mar 29, 2013

I would be more concerned about finding the most accurate load than the highest velocity load.

125JHP · Mar 29, 2013

I've just started testing 158 XTP.FP with LilGun in my Marlin 357. I've loaded up increments from 17 to 19 gr but haven't gotten out to test them yet.

I did chrono 5 with 17.0 at 1789 fps the other day so that is where I chose to start.

I also tried a 158 Berrys plated FP-thick plate over 16.5 LilGun for 1744 fps.

FWIW Sierra rates their 158gr JHP up to 2200 fps so I would think Nosler would be comparable.

Be sure to use SR primers in these types of loads as I did have one batch I had originally primed the cases for pistol and had a pierced primer when I used it for a rifle charge.

oh and the Marlin bbl is 18.5"

ArchAngelCD · Mar 29, 2013

From the Nosler WEB site:

Whether you punch paper, shoot steel, or use your handgun for hunting, Nosler® ensures you have the very finest in accuracy, consistency and overall quality. Each bullet is produced on the most advanced, fully automated machinery and, like our premium rifle bullets, Nosler® hand inspects and then polishes all Sporting Handgun™ bullets to a bright finish.

So, according to Nosler their bullets are suitable for hunting but that doesn't address the maximum velocity of their handgun bullets. I would write Nosler and ask them the velocity limits of the bullet you're going to load. That is the best and most reliable source for the correct information. Please let us know what they tell you...

Also on their Site:

Tapered Copper- Alloy Jacket:

Extremely concentric, tapered jacket is built for maximum accuracy and enhanced game-taking ability

BUT, the chart on their site shows their bullets expanded and the chart stops @ 1350 fps. Again, to know for sure ask Nosler...

Recruit · Apr 1, 2013

I contacted Nosler with this question: "Hi; I'd like to know the maximum velocity the Nosler 158gr JHP (part 44841) can be loaded to. I see velocties as high as 1448 fps listed in your load data but am interested in the max design velocity for this bullet for rifle shooting."

Their response is as follows: "The bullet will handle 2200fps no problems, however it will expand very violently."

Max Velocity with Nosler 158gr Sporting Handgun in 357 Rifle?

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buck460XVR

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Nevada Ed

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H Richard

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125JHP

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ArchAngelCD

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