38 Spl +P W231 158 gr RNL

[38SPL HV]

For those who might like some very good pressure tested load data of the .38 spl in real guns I recommend back issue,of Handloader magazine Oct 2016, #304. Another one of many excellent articles from Brian Pearce that has std. +P and 38/44 data in different revolvers.

Yes, great publication and specifically their Oct 2016 edition. I have old copies still of Handloader dating back to Ken Waters days.

Pearce's robust 38-44 2400 loads exceed the factory 38-44 of the day…Mike Venturino of Handloader has a more realistic 38-44 factory duplicate using 2400 and a lesser charge. Venturino's 38-44 load is the one to use if you want to duplicate vintage factory 38-44 ammo. Pearce's 2400 38-44 loads are in 357 Mag terrority…that's why if you want a bigger gun, use a 357 Magnum.

 

[alwslate]

Yeah Pearce takes 38/44 handloads way beyond original data. I have two .38 spl HDs but since they aren't making any more and I have several .357s I don't load mine any heavier than +P. Speaking of heavy Brian included Old Elmer's 38/44 load in his data and it was heavier than any of Brian's

 

[38SPL HV]

Yep, 38-44 loads (1,100 fps +) only in my 357 Magnums. There is enough good 38 Spl +P load data out there, particularly Speer's using Power Pistol and 158 gr lead, that gives one a nice strong and accurate load without beating on those valuable revolvers.

 

[TexasViking]

I started out handloading with the Lyman 46th Edition and the SPEER #11 Manual. SPEER recommended the CCI550 magnum primer. Along with the WIN WSPM, they've worked very well with W231 over the years. The SNS 158 gr. SWC over 4.5 grs. of W231 with a WSPM is a very good load for my 4.2" GP100.