Model 64-2 38 spl. w/ green dot

[Overdrawn]

Does anyone have experience with green dot & 38 spl 150gr cast loads. I've been running 4.0grs green dot in my loads, they aren't sticking, some cases fall out while a few have to be nudged out of the cylinder. I had initially used these loads as light loads for my Highway Patrolman 357 but wanted a nice +P load for the 64.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I think 4.0gr Green Dot is just a little too hot IMO. I think 3.7gr is probably near the top end, maybe 3.8gr for a standard pressure load but I'm guessing 4.0gr is fine for +P pressures.

I used only 1lb of Green Dot ever and used it for the .38 Special. I got it for free and it worked well enough but not well enough to turn me away from my favorite .38 Special powder, W231.

 

[imashooter2]

My 1985 Hercules Reloaders Guide lists 4.5 grains of Green Dot as a standard pressure load under a 158 grain lead RN. It's doubtful that 4.0 under a lighter bullet is +P...

 

[imashooter2]

Would the Hercules Reloaders Guide be listing the 4.5 grs of green dot for a standard 357 mag load, alliant shows max loadings at 3.7 grs for the 38 spl.

No, the .357 mag load for a 158 grain lead RN is 7.5 grains of Green Dot (in the 1985 Hercules guide).

 

[Skip Sackett]

I have never had good luck with Green Dot in any handgun cartridge. Most of the loads I worked up with it though were for the 9mm. Another forum member and myself share this opinion when trying to drive the 38spl at higher velocities.

My bottle of Green Dot is kind of "unique" (not the powder). It was given to me from a guy that sold out of bigger lots. Here it is: (still just as full too! )