heavier than normal loads

[Quantrill]

Looking for heavier than normal (but safe) loads for 44-40 in the S&W model 644. Also looking for heavier but safe loads for 45Colt in S&W model 25-5. Thanks in advance for any help. Quantrill

 

[Hillbilly77]

I don't know what your idea of "normal" is, but Hodgdon's online source is a good tool.

Hodgdon Reloading | Home

 

[Rule3]

I can not say for the model 644 but the SW 45 Colt M 25 is not built to take heavy Ruger or TC loads. Stay within the normal printed manual loads for that gun,

Why do you need heavier than "normal"??

 

[alwslate]

Looking for heavier than normal (but safe) loads for 44-40 in the S&W model 644. Also looking for heavier but safe loads for 45Colt in S&W model 25-5. Thanks in advance for any help. Quantrill

The best source for the kind of information you seek will be
Handloader magazine. Some very experienced gunwriters
publish articles on some of the older rounds that feature
tables of loads at different pressure levels suitable for guns
of various capabilities. Back issues are available and the
45 Colt has been extensively covered.

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

44-40 now days is listed with 200-205 grain bullets, I can't find a 240 grain load, but Black powder should be easy. It will be about 30-32 grains depending if you use a "Lube Cookie" or not. Remember many 44-40's are in .427 or smaller bullets (old Remingtons and modern Rugers are) and some are in .429. My Rugers wouldn't chamber a .429 to save me!

I see data for 45 Colt safe in 25's up to 310 all the time on this forum, use the search function.

 

[chief38]

Without a specific list of what powders & components you are using it is sort of a moot point. Log on to the Powder Company's re-loading data and they will give you specific advise for the specific powder and components you are using along with maximums, minimums, velocities and pressures. That's the best advise I know how to give you.

A Chronograph also helps in proofing the loads after you produce them and will enable you to fine tune your loads.