Excellent 38 loads..

[jwr0201]

Made a few of groups of 38 loads with HP-38, using load info that forum members were good enough to recommended.
First is this one; 158gr Berry's plated bullets over 4.3gr HP38 with OAL 1.45 (this from OKFC05 as a favorite IDPA load).
Next is: 158gr Hornady LSWC over 4.0gr and as an alternate - 4.1gr HP-38 with OAL of 1.475.
I have to say - these are all incredibly smooth and accurate loads! Had my best groups from 686 & 66 with these.
I found that the loads are stout enough, but perceived recoil seems less than with factory ammo. Also seems that the ability to recover and re-acquire the target is quicker.
Many thanks to those who shared their knowledge!
RR

 

[GyMac]

Glad that you found loads that make you happy. I use just about the same loads in my .38's. The .38 special is a great cartridge!

 

[hawgleg]

I really like those swaged Hornady bullets, very accurate. I use Berry's in 9mm and 45 acp. I'll have to try them in the 38's soon. I'd think the Berry's plated and Hornady's swaged will be close in price since the Hornady lead ain't cheap. Thanks for the info.

 

[sjmjax]

Pretty much the same as my "standard" full power 38 special load.

4.2 grains of 231 with a 158 grain LSWC. Has been exceptionally accurate in a wide range of .38 revolvers.

 

[Steve in Vermont]

[QUOTE=jwr0201;136214593
Next is: 158gr Hornady LSWC over 4.0gr and as an alternate - 4.1gr HP-38 with OAL of 1.475.

I've been loading this same bullet with 3.5 gr and an OAL of 1.455, as recommended in their manual. Nice to shoot, even in a J Frame.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

A 158gr LSWC over 4.0gr W231 is probably my favorite load. It fires well in most 38/357 revolvers...

 

[jwr0201]

A 158gr LSWC over 4.0gr W231 is probably my favorite load. It fires well in most 38/357 revolvers...

You gave me that gem bit of info - superb load! I owe you and
OKFC05 a range session with ammo if you make it to Central FL area!
RR

 

[dynamike]

Your load choices are pretty much the same as mine. My go -to IDPA load is a Berry's 158 gr. bullet over 4.0 gr. W231...has served me well.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

You gave me that gem bit of info - superb load! I owe you and
OKFC05 a range session with ammo if you make it to Central FL area!
RR

I just might take you up on that some day. Are you near Jupiter Beach?