safe pressure of .44 Special handloads

[olskool]

i always used 17gr. of h4227 with a 200 gr. cast or jacket. and extreemly accurate load. i know that seems like a lot of powder, but it is very slow and does require a mag. primer also to burn complete. now the only 4227 is imr brand. i think it is the same burn rate.

 

[TSQUARED]

Hi,

I'm trying to find out some good working handloads in the 900 fps range (200 grs bullets) for the .44 Special. I'm using the official reloading data sheets (Vihtavuori) and Quickload as a "backup" to cross check the data. Interestingly, QL gives me very high pressure specs even with the VV staring loads. Example: 200 grs Hornady XTP 8.3 grs VV N340 (starting load) - QL generates 19780 psi, which of course is far above SAAMI Max. I testet this load with a lead bullet (205 grs hardcast) which should bring 17440 psi according to QL. This load (stout but not heavy) doesn't show any signs of high pressure, no flat primers, even the brass is sooty somehow.

Should I reduce the loads to SAAMI specs or should I feel safe for the 696 and 624 to stay in the 18000 psi area? What do you think?

regards
Ulrich

My scanner died and I am awaiting a repalcement. I have an old American FRifleman article with pressure tested loads for the 44 Special. Drop me a note in a few weeks I hope to have the new scanner by then.