Loads for .38 S&W?

This section is for reloading and ammunition only, all loads found in here are used strictly at your own risk, if in doubt ask again.
All handloading data posted on Full-Bore UK from 23/2/2021 must reference the published pressure tested data it was sourced from, posts without such verification will be removed.
Any existing data without such a reference should treated as suspect and not used.

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Forum rules
All handloading data posted on Full-Bore UK from 23/2/2021 must reference the published pressure tested data it was sourced from, posts without such verification will be removed.
Any existing data without such a reference should be treated as suspect and not used.

Use reloading information posted here at your own risk. This forum (http://www.full-bore.co.uk) is not responsible for any property damage or personal injury as a consequence of using reloading data posted here, the information is individual members findings and observations only. Always verify the load data and be absolutely sure your firearm can handle the load, especially older ones. If in doubt start low and work your way up.
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BooBoo
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Loads for .38 S&W?

#1 Post by BooBoo »

I am about to start loading for this calibre... S&W Victory before anyone asks.

In an ideal world, I would be looking to use either 360 or 361 dia bullets (which are readily available to US loaders across the pond).

However, the same is not quite so true over here...

I read of some obtaining reasonable levels of accuracy with a 148 358 HBWC driven to about 600 fps (apparently the base expands and obturates sufficiently on firing to engage the rifling).

Can I ask what load others are using - Bullet / Powder / Charge?

I was thinking along the lines of 2.3 HP38 with a 148 HBWC loaded sufficiently out to avoid any compression of charge...

Many thanks...
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bradaz11
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Re: Loads for .38 S&W?

#2 Post by bradaz11 »

can't publish load data now without reference, I can look when I get home, see if I had a recognised starting point or not.

I gave up on finding .360+ bullets, and we aren't to use wadcutters on range due to the backstop being linatex (SP?) covered, but when the new steels arrive it will be fine.
When my Enfield was in hand, found 357 to give a good fit. I use los plated 180gr bullets from blackrifle. find them to be more than accurate enough for me and a nice middle ground on the loadings.
When guns are outlawed, only Outlaws will have guns
BooBoo
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Re: Loads for .38 S&W?

#3 Post by BooBoo »

Thank you Bradaz... please feel free to PM me with any thoughts?

The load that I specified is straight off the Lee Die Sheet - I'm not a fan of Lee but they're still readily available for pistol caibres without having to spend a fortune. More than good enough for the study of....
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bradaz11
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Re: Loads for .38 S&W?

#4 Post by bradaz11 »

i've got a load (well, less now) Dominion 38s&w and its all .357 bullets
also use the lee dies, and they are fine for me
When guns are outlawed, only Outlaws will have guns
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