Kinda wish we had a 'Handgun Hunting' sub here on the SWF...., but here goes -
Nope, not a poll, just hoping for some input from experience.
Long-time handgun hunter - also an adherent to open sights only.
Recently obtained a c.1979 Colt Python .357, 4". Always been a S&W guy but admired Pythons just due to their history and being the flagship of 'Old Colt' when craftsmen were on the production floor.
Plan to take the Python afield next Fall and blood it on at least one of our smallish Whitetails found in Eastern NC.
Know for most, and me included, that the 'go-to' hunting bullet is the Hornady 158 or 180 gr. XTP. I've used the 158 gr XTP in a carbine with very good results.... - just not sure I can get it up to good enough velocity in a 4" revolver for reliable expansion.
I hunt THICK cover - many shots are well inside 40 yards. Another caveat is that it is NOT a place where you enjoy blood trailing.....
(Plan to load up some Sierra 150 gr JHC's that are no longer produced - don't have many)
So - just ordered a bulk amount of Everglades 158 gr JHP's. Photos of them resemble a similar Sierra product.
Anyone here ever hunted with the Everglades bulk 158 gr JHP's or JSP's?? (their JSP's are out of stock)
Another alternate being considered is the GT Bullets 185 gr LFP-HP. Have some loaded to hunting levels but have not had time to try them - I just got the Python from a friend. (see post-script)
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A post-script here.... - I did shoot the remaining Sierra 150 gr JHC's with upper-level charges of AA-7.
I also shot several of the GT Bullets 185 gr LFP-HP using WW296.
Long story short - the Python did not like either of the loads. And the GT 180 gr. round's COAL when crimping in the crimp groove was almost exactly the length of the cylinder. I loaded only one at a time I was so afraid of 'crimp jump' from an adjoining chamber that would tie the gun up. even though all were firmly crimped. I also use an undersized expander, that just flares the case mouth only, resulting in very firm 'bullet pull'.
Tried some factory Federal 'American Eagle' .357's 158 gr. JSP and they almost cloverleafed at 25 yards from a rest.
Kind of offends me when my carefully put-together handloads are so easily outshot by mere factory ammo.
Again, any experience on game using actual Everglades 158 gr. JHP's appreciated.
Thanks all.
.357 bullets for deer - experience?
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