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Loads for .38 Spl in a v-e-r-y long barrel

COLT45SA

Silver $$ Contributor
I have a long barreled firearm (single shot) and want to know what powder(s) you have found to be most accurate with a 158 gr. lead bullet~!
Really, really interested in your findings~!!
Thanks~!
 
For a 158-grain bullet in a 38 special (nonplus+) lead bullet, I would choose 231 or Unique with a roll crimp.

I would also distinguish between load data for a hard cast bullet which can be driven faster, and a swage bullet which should not be driven over 900 f/s to prevent excessive leading. A swage bullet will give you the potential for greater accuracy versus a hard case lead bullet although the Oregon Trail Laser Cast bullets are very accurate in my experience, on par with swaged bullets.
 
I have a long barreled firearm (single shot) and want to know what powder(s) you have found to be most accurate with a 158 gr. lead bullet~!
Really, really interested in your findings~!!
Thanks~!
For years, my wife and I shot a modified version of outdoor silhouette using a 158 gr. SWC lead bullet. Always used Win 231. The firearm was a S&W 586 with a 8-1/4 inch barrel.
 
I wouldn't know how to word a search, but I am sure Ive seen in the past accuracy loads for 38psec in a lever action rifle. Maybe a Lyman manual, maybe ask at Cast Boolits, for them this is an everyday thing.
 
I'd use 2400, probably over book but haven't checked. GOOD LUCK! I'd be interested in your results. The loads listed while fine in a revolver lack a little as far as accuracy (velocity). If those didn't work I'd probably go to H-110 Or 296 neither of which I've had good results. Gary
 
While ideal for the 357 Magnum especially with 158 grain jacketed bullets, the problem with slower burning powders like 2400, 296, and H110 in the 38 special is that they tend to not burn efficiently in small charges that's why a lot of loading manuals do not list them for this cartridge.

I know that Keith had considerable success with heavy charges of 2400 in a 38 special the heavy N frame S&W revolver but powders like Unique and 231 burning rates are more efficient for 38 special (non-plus P) loads.
 
The problem with rifle speed powders designed for bottlenecked cases is that the pressure tends to drop too fast to get complete burn in straight walled cases. In a 45-70 a case full of Varget will leave unburned kernels in the bore. For that cartridge you have to stay in the speed range of IMR 3031, H4198, Rx7, or AA 5744.

I think you’re going to have to go off the menu to find what your looking for.
 
What did you find so funny about that responders comment~????
With that long a barrel, for only .38---which, mind you, is exactly the kind of thing I would rope myself into---it was a joke about using RE-17 to maximize burn.
 
I've had really good results with CFE pistol in my Marlin carbine.It has a 16 inch barrel.Ordinarily CFE would be on the slow side for the 38,but it hits a pretty good lick in a longer barrel.
 

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