model 19 ammo

[TRJeff]

This is pertaining to a 19-3, I have heard that light loads can be an issue with this gun, true / false, I use reloads with 120 grain flat nose and 7.6 grain Unique for punching holes in paper. Ok, Better load? Thank you

 

[Tom_R]

If you are using .357 Magnums, the Conventional Wisdom on J-Frame and K-Frame guns is shoot them sparingly, and don;t shoot the (excellent) 125-Grain, hot Magnum loads.

For Magnums, only shoot 158 Grain or higher, and then sparingly.

Any Factory .38spcls are a non-item/issue.

Happy Shooting.

 

[amazingflapjack]

In my -4 I like a 357 case loaded to about a +P 38 spl level, with a 158gr semi wad cuter lead bullet. Accurate, and easy on me and the gun.

 

[Tom_R]

In my -4 I like a 357 case loaded to about a +P 38 spl level, with a 158gr semi wad cuter lead bullet. Accurate, and easy on me and the gun.

I believe Hickock45 uses a similar load in his 19-5

 

[Hapworth]

Welcome to your first post, TRJeff.

This is one of the most common questions asked around here, and pertains to most .357-rated K-frames, not just the 19. Run a search for plenty of good reading (and a wee bit o' debate ).

Here's a fine article on the subject in regards to the Model 19 specifically: Use of Magnum Loads in S&W Model 19 and Other K-Frame Magnums

Personally, I shoot about whatever through my Ks, but none is a hard use gun, and they're well cleaned and maintained.

 

[Blackbarry]

In my -4 I like a 357 case loaded to about a +P 38 spl level, with a 158gr semi wad cuter lead bullet. Accurate, and easy on me and the gun.

Help me here.... Why does one load a .357 to +P pressure and simply not shoot .38 +P? Because you have the brass?

 

[Hapworth]

Help me here.... Why does one load a .357 to +P pressure and simply not shoot .38 +P? Because you have the brass?

Less scrubbing the charge holes; .38 brass in a .357 cylinder doesn't reach the shoulder and cruds up, which can cause loading and extraction issues when .357 is used.

There's the argument, too, that .38 in a .357 cylinder might experience accuracy issues.

 

[DWalt]

The best .357 revolver I have is a magnificent Colt 3-5-7, the predecessor to the Python. It fires somewhat better groups with the old standard 148 grain wadcutter target load than it will with any full .357 load, and is much more pleasant to shoot. The idea behind the Model 19 was that the majority of shots fired from it in training and qualification would be .38 Specials, with use of the full .357 loads being reserved for law enforcement duty use. I have never had an issue with use of .38 Special ammunition causing difficulty in chambering .357 rounds. Perhaps it's because I scrub the chambers with a brass bristle brush after each use.