1st time loading for 357 mag

[cg&p]

I picked up my 1st wheel gun (a ruger NM blackhawk) in 357 mag. as such this is my 1st foray into reloading for the cartridge. The case capacity is far greater than the amount of powder Hodgdon's load data says to use (4.5-5.5 gr HP-38) for a 125gr cast lead bullet.

question is, since there is so much empty space left in the case, do I need to find a different powder to use to fill it up more? filling the case up only ~20% seems like it will produce inconsistent results. or am i overthinking this?

TIA

[Yetiultimate]

It's normal. Just shoot it

[hermosabeach]

Not at all- follow the loading book and you will be fine.

I don’t use some powders where a double charge is not visually noticeable.

Are you using 2400, 700x or what is your current load?

[cg&p]

I have CFE pistol, AA #9, HP-38, TG, and H110 on hand. The #9 & H110 doesnt have load data for 125gr lead bullets from the manufacturers

[cg&p]

And thank you both for the replies!

[bruce381]

Rifle cases are never fill to top maybe varget in some rifles but pistol powders are very fast burning so they are mostly half full.

[Yetiultimate]

Get this book. I cast just about all my pistol and rifle bullets now. 13 gr of 2400 with spmp is great with 125gr cast and powdercoated rnfp. And yes...it fills about 1/3 of the case.

https://www.amazon.com/Lyman-Cast-Bullet-Handbook-4Th/dp/B07PSNM3KV

[Capt.Dunsel]

Rifle cases are never fill to top maybe varget in some rifles but pistol powders are very fast burning so they are mostly half full.

Guess you never use H4831

[bruce381]

I said maybe varget but yeah 4831 also but for unless loading like 9mm for major pistols are normally never full but then again I guess magnums can be full to so?

[rm1911]