357 Magnum 158gr SWC with Win 244 results

71vette

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I loaded up a test batch of 357 magnum last night. Used Summit 158 grain coated SWC’s, Winchester 244 powder, and Fiocchi small pistol primers. Here’s my results:

158gr Summit SWC
6gr Win244, 1.58” COAL, SPP

17.4” Henry: 1300fps
3.5” Pre-27: 1000fps
2.5” 66-7: 975fps

It’s a “light magnum” load. Honestly looking at the numbers it’s a lot closer to 38-44 than 357 Magnum. It was definitely a “Magnum” in the 2.5” K frame. Not abusive at all, but not a 38. In the big N frame it gave a little shove and some bark, but no big deal at all.

I roll crimped at the grove on the SWC’s. Had zero cycling issues at all in the Henry. 38’s in the Rifle feel like 22’s. These light magnums do bark a little but they seem like fun in the rifle. I’ll be loading more. Overall a nice little slice of time at the range.

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Nice pair you have there.

I haven't ever used W244 but it sounds like it's working for you.

Sweet
 
Feels like a light 38 spec load when i shot 5 & 6 grs 244 in 357 mag with 161 gr lswc.

Hodgdon has it at 1250 fps. Different barrel length.
 
Is 244 a good powder for .41 or .44 mag ? I have been using HP 38.

I have been using Unique powder for Mild to Moderate (Mid-Range) Magnum loads and 2400 powder for Wild or Top End Magnum loads. I follow the RCBS Manual and I have been reloading 40+ years.

HP 38 is for Light Magnum loads with lead bullets.
 
244 is advertised as a new improved HP 38/ 231.. Its more dense, so takes up less room, I would suspect it wont be as consistent in large cases like the 44.
Try some BE 86,, good for medium revolver loads. Its a bit slower than unique.
 
244 is advertised as a new improved HP 38/ 231.. Its more dense, so takes up less room, I would suspect it wont be as consistent in large cases like the 44.
Try some BE 86,, good for medium revolver loads. Its a bit slower than unique.

I have never seen W244 advertised as "a new and improved W231". Where did you see that?

W244 is a new powder which is cleaner and easier to manufacture. That is why it was developed as was W572. Every manufacturer is worried about making their product cleaner so the government doesn't shut them down.
 
Thanks for the info 71. I just got 4#s of 244 last week, I’m testing 9mm first. Glad to see 244 starting to get noticed.
Semper paratus
 

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