.38 148 Grain HBWC Test

[Model 15-4ever]

I have 32 of this

from many years ago but don't remember what load I had or powder.

I wish someone still made these. Used them back in the 80s… what a great bullet in .38 Special.

 

[Nevada Ed]

Too bad one was not turned upside down.........
I was wondering what the other end looked like.

Very interesting design.

 

[Jaymo]

HBWC are NOT INTENDED for "STOUT" LOADS.

HBWC would be SOFT lead and SWEDGED, NOT CAST.

Swaged, not swedged.

I load them with unique, to about 900 fps and they don't keyhole.

 

[rwsmith]

I stated and was debated...

In another thread I stated and was debated that I had keyholing with 158 gr bullets out of a 2" barrel. I'm starting to develop a liking for 2 1/2 - 3" barrels

 

[venomballistics]

Wadcutters are accurate and do cut nice clean holes in paper targets, but I am not a big fan of them. I do shoot them from time to time because my Dad left me a bunch of them, but I do notice they lead up the forcing cone and charge holes more than the RNL 158's do. My favorite .38 special
target load is 158 grain RNL hard cast bullet over 3.1 grains of Tightgroup.
I find them just as accurate as the WC's and no leading.

For defense work I would not use either! I like the BB LSWCHP-GC HEAVY 38 Special +P (#20A).

Loads of info about coating bullets in the rear view mirror on this board.
Powder coating, or hi tek system. Take either for a test drive, and you can kiss leading goodbye.
It might lead you to adjust your choice of bullet.