Loading .38 Special.

[COLT45SA]

Sinve the .38 Special cartridge is rather large for the amount of powder recommended, isn't it a good idea to use a filler on top of the powder to keep the powder near the primer under all conditions!?

 

[JohnW...ski]

Good idea but not necessary, I have loaded tens of thousands of rounds with around 3.0 grains of Bullseye and never had a problem.

 

[Jeff Porter]

I use 148 HBWC crimped flush at the case mouth to fill up more case volume and have shot 10’s of thousands of rounds with 2.2 of WST. Very accurate paper punching round even at 25 yards. I add 0.5 gr for 50 yards.

 

[std7mag]

Not anywhere near the excess capacity vs the 357 Mag.

I just follow the load data.

 

[Oso]

I had a shooting experience that left a lasting impression. I was RSO running a IDPA stage when a highly regarded master shooter experienced a double charge. The timer “buzzed” and lightning fast he drew his revolver and fired 2-3 rounds before sinking to his knees. As I came around him expecting a potential heart attack, I was shocked to see him grasping a detonated revolver. The backstrap was gone and cylinder walls were blown off. Immediately started searching for blood and holes. He got luck with only a brutal concussion as the backstrap punched him in the face as it headed to orbit.

TrailBoss is the magic with great case fill and performance. Unfortunately, it’s unobtainable. Both Bullseye and Titegroup are solid alternates (clean burning with nice recoil impulse), with exception of lower case fill. You’re right to be concerned with minimal case fill (20%), especially in longer/taller cases. I settled on a process that ensures I couldn’t accidentally double charge, including no background distractions (no kids, tv, phone or YouTube).

 

[sw282]

Standard IHMSA: Don't load or shoot any handgun cartridge with a density less than 60% of the case volume

 

[K22]

I cannot comment on theories or hearsay info, but I can offer real world experience with the 38 Special.

I shot NRA Precision Pistol for about 30 years using the S&W Model 14, 38 Special revolver in the centerfire stage. The load was a classic, 148 grain swaged hollow base wadcutter behind 3.0 grains of 231 or 2.8 of Bullseye. This load will hold the X ring at 50 yards in a quality pistol. I personally tested it with a ransom rest several times. Also tested this load in the Model 52 S&W semi-auto with its special bushing - same results - X ring capable.

I qualified Distinguish Expert (285x300) with this revolver and the 231 load.

Based on my real-world experience, this case fill issue is nonsense when it comes to the 38 Special.

PS: Now days I shoot the Hornaday 125 XTP behind a 231 +P load in a 38 case in my Model 19 S&W. Holds a 10 ring on a B16 25-yard slow fire target off the bench. This is less than 50% case fill.