Handload Arena: 44 spcl vs 44 Magnum?

[keithhagan]

Which of the 44 caliber revolver cartridges benefits most from or is better for handloading?

This could be based on cost savings, performance, availability of components, low barrier to entry for new reloaders, something else entirely, or a combination.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

IMO both factory loads cost just about the same and reloading each isn't much of a different cost either. You will use a little more powder with the magnum but not so much you will hurt your pocket.

I'm sorry I can pick 1 because both benefit from the ability of your being able to make light practice loads, full bore loads and everything in between.

 

[44wheelman]

Or a load in the middle.

 

[BE Mike]

If one already has the equipment to reload, a reloader benefits in about every category by reloading any magnum cartridge. These days it applies to just about any revolver cartridge. That is considering performance, accuracy and economy. The reloader also benefits when choosing what type of ammo to use for any specified purpose. Factory revolver ammo is not only currently limited in basic supply of caliber, it is very limited in different loadings.

 

[cadmike]

I don't think one benefits more than the other. Same dies for both, mostly same components, and if you have a magnum, same gun.

 

[mtgianni]

The magnum generally has more available loads so the special benefits some in your ability to tailor your own. Slight advantage, about 51 % to 49%.

 

[BigMuddy]

I'm going to say the Special benefits more from reloading. My reasons being, 44 Mag ammo is easier to find in factory form, at least around here. Don't remember the last time I saw 44 Special ammo on a shelf. Also when 44Sp is s found it is usually pretty anemic. Safe reloads can greatly improve performance.

Dan

 

[rockquarry]

Which of the 44 caliber revolver cartridges benefits most from or is better for handloading?

This could be based on cost savings, performance, availability of components, low barrier to entry for new reloaders, something else entirely, or a combination.

Perhaps I'm missing something here, but the way your question is posed, there is no "better" for handloading between the two cartridges. Same for the other cartridges in the other posts. Your level of handloading experience is unknown here.

As a suggestion and not a criticism, reviewing handloading basics in a couple of paper handloading manuals followed by a study of load data of the cartridges in question that you have an interest in will likely benefit you greatly. The responses that others have provided here will also have greater meaning after you review all the necessary published material . Good luck-

 

[Roofuss]

I shoot both, doubt there is a lot of difference cost wise . I prefer to shoot specials out of my 629-1 .

 

[STORMINORMAN]

I would opine that reloading 44 Specials can provide the greater potential benefits over factory offerings...

Cheers!

P.S. I have never purchased any 44 Special OR 44 Magnum factory ammunition...

 

[M1A]

Toss up.
For decades I only had a 629. I loaded only mag cases. With special specs I used a lead bullet, and with mag specs I used a JHP.

 

[RoyM52]

I assume , by this line of questioning, that you don't reload. If you did , you wouldn't care about which is more of anything. You would just reload what you needed for a firearm that you own and shoot.

The same is true if you were thinking about starting to reload.

You would just pick what you want to shoot or tailor a round for.

 

[Claymore33]

They both cost @ $1.00 round. So I reload both.

 

[Mike SC Hunter]

Both.............Again BOTH..........I reload both with my cast bullets on the cheap........This way I can shoot lots.

 

[TIMETRIPPER]

Both. AFAIC any centerfire cartridge, rifle or hand gun, is best to reload. The only possible exception is the 9mm Luger as it is usually the least costly and most available of any.

John

 

[Cdog]

Again based on availability. The .44 Special.

 

[cowboy4evr]

I chose 44 magnum . I can load 44 mag cases to ballistics equal to 44 special but I can't / won't load 44 special cases to equal 44 magnum . Regards Paul