CCI Blazer Brass 158 gr sjhp 357 magnum

[aalmcc4]

Anybody use this ammo? I'm looking for a good general purpose 357 load to be carried in my 4" M28 during hikes etc. I live in PA so potential targets both 4 and 2 legged wouldn't be too big.

I can't find any decent self defense ammo in my area. All that's around is cheap imported target ammo.

Thanks guys.

 

[flop-shank]

Why don't you test fire some and see how you and your gun shoot it together? I did shoot the CCI 158 gr. aluminum cased JHP .357 load about a dozen years ago. It didn't strike me as mild. A trip to the range and a look at CCI's website should give you a great idea as to what you're dealing with. My educated hunch is that you will be well served by that particular load.

 

[Mule88]

I use the 357 Blazer Brass all the time and it gives me excellent performance and accuracy. Give it a try, I think you'll like it.

 

[stiab]

I live in PA

That's an interesting place to walk. PA just had one of it's best bear seasons, several cougar reports last year, and it has been determined that the plentiful PA coyotes have some wolf DNA. Throw in the 2 legged critters, and there's ample reason to carry more than a stick when you walk!

 

[kmrcstintn]

the relative velocity listed for the CCI Blazer Brass is 1235 fps while for the CCI Blazer (aluminum case) is 1135 fps; both use the same 158gr jhp bullet; brass cased ammo is set at normal pressure loads for a 158gr load and the aluminum cased stuff is set at moderate pressure loads which should help with recoil and controlled shot placement, especially out of a smaller/lighter revolver;

here is a link showing a water expansion test with the aluminum cased load & if you review other .357 magnum tests you should notice that the CCI bullet remains intact while others fragment:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0n7xLs00Do

I keep a box on hand and load my Ruger SP101 when I wear it at hunting camp while doing stuff...same aluminum cased ammo

 

[Ironhand]

I've been shooting this ammo through my 28-2 due to getting it cheap from a local gun shop. I don't have a chronograph, but it sure doesn't feel very mild, especially compared to Remington 125gr. JSP. Lots of muzzle/cylinder blast, and more getting hit by burning powder than any of the other brands I've tried yet. I've not tried any of my Hornady 125gr. FTX ammo yet, but it's supposed to be quite hot.....

 

[badge]

I could be wrong but I have always been told that the aluminum loading is a sort of 3/4 load while the brass loading is a full house .357. I toll reside in Pa. and I reckon you'll have tons more issues with two legged critters than four, especially bears. Any good 158 grain hollowpoint should be suiteable for your purpose.