Recommended loads for 38 DA Break Top 38 S&W

[Oscarflytyer]

Just acquired a 38 DA 4th Model in 38 S&W. Gun is in great shape and locks up very tight. Serial is 479xxx which should put it nearer the end of the 4th Model run.

I would like to shoot it some, albeit with very light loads just for fun. And won't shoot it much, just a great conversation piece.

I know I can shoot BP in it, and have some.

Can anyone recommend light Smokeless loads for this model with a ~145-150 grn cast bullet? I have plenty of different powders. Thanx

 

[thadheth]

If you check the reloading pages of M.D. Smith (now at reloadammo.com), you will find a few loads for 145 grain RN that are specifically for top break revolvers (2.0 grains Bullseye, and other data for Unique, W231, etc.). I have used the load information for 158 grain cast bullets and it seems quite satisfactory for my top breaks in good condition.

 

[Model19man]

I would use the data for 146 grain LRN and .360" diameter bullets. They are available from sources including Old West, Matt's, Missouri Bullet Co, probably many others. The 158 grain bullets are for 38 Special - they will rattle around in a 38 S&W barrel.

 

[Model19man]

Good data - ignore the data for 38 Special 158 grain bullets.

Reloading The .38 Smith & Wesson - Reload Ammo

 

[Model19man]

In your old top break I would use something like 2.5 grains of Unique powder with a 146 grain LRN bullet. That's probably plenty for a 100 + year old revolver.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I use a 145/146gr LRN bullet over 2.2gr to 2.5gr W231 for 38 S&W ammo.
I would not go lighter than a 2.2gr charge.

 

[DWalt]

.357-.358 lead bullets will work fine if you have any. .361 bullets are optional. Use only factory equivalent handloads in an old top break. That is generally what reloading manuals provide. Loadings to be used in solid frame revolvers can be loaded somewhat warmer if you are so inclined.

 

[steelslaver]

While a bullet that is slightly under sized will not completely fill the grooves, the will not "rattle down the bore" as the land diameter is usually .003 to .004 smaller than groove.

With a 38 S&W top break you will not get enough velocity for the bullet to strip in the rifling

Case in point most S&W 357 revolvers will only allow a .352 or .353 pin gauge slip down the bore.

Also if you cast your own and don't size them they will measure .001 or more larger

 

[Oscarflytyer]

If you check the reloading pages of M.D. Smith (now at reloadammo.com), you will find a few loads for 145 grain RN that are specifically for top break revolvers (2.0 grains Bullseye, and other data for Unique, W231, etc.). I have used the load information for 158 grain cast bullets and it seems quite satisfactory for my top breaks in good condition.

Found that this morning, and thanx for the confirmation on the loads.

 

[Oscarflytyer]

Good data - ignore the data for 38 Special 158 grain bullets.

Reloading The .38 Smith & Wesson - Reload Ammo

Found these as well. Thanx again.

 

[Inland7-45]

I have thought about adding an S&W Top Break .38 S&W to the collection.
I like to have nostalgic fun and keep history alive. This is why I invested in dies and brass and took the time t research the best options to have a steady supply of ammunition for my S&W BSR and Colt Police Positve.

I have also done the same thing for my .32 Long I frames.

Right now I am loading the Missouri Bullet Co. .361 dia 145 with 2.7 gr W231.

If I find a nice S&W break top it might be fun to step a little farther back into history.

 

[raljr1]

I use 2.4 gr w231 behind a Rim Rock 125gr lead flat point

Robert

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I have thought about adding an S&W Top Break .38 S&W to the collection.
I like to have nostalgic fun and keep history alive. This is why I invested in dies and brass and took the time t research the best options to have a steady supply of ammunition for my S&W BSR and Colt Police Positve.

I have also done the same thing for my .32 Long I frames.

Right now I am loading the Missouri Bullet Co. .361 dia 145 with 2.7 gr W231.

If I find a nice S&W break top it might be fun to step a little farther back into history.

IMO a charge of 2.7gr W231 is a little high for a top break revolver. I would not go over 2.5gr. A small change in a short case like the 38 S&W makes a big difference.