First Time Loading 357 Magnum

[Donny1]

I reload a lot of calibers but never 357 Mag.

I don't have SPP magnum primers. I've read that standard SPP are okay depending on the load and powder used. It will be for a lever action rifle. I will likely be loading 158gn FP or RNFP. I will also be loading 38spl for it.

Any insights, recipes appreciated. I have a lot of W231, CFE Pistol, some Red Dot, H335 and IMR 4895.

[Cheep]

Anytime you use magnum powders or pressures you should be using magnum primers. Check the load data and follow accordingly.

[jarhead714]

For levers, the overall cartridge length is paramount as I recall.

[Kokopelli]

For my Marlin 1894C, I reload full power 357 loads with WW296 or H110 and jacketed bullets..

38 Special loads, I use WW231 for cast lead or jacketed handloads.

I compare manuals from Speer, Sierra, Hornady and Lyman. None exceed the charges listed in the manuals.

[bhilliker@comcast.net]

If you are not loading max loads then either primer option will work!!

[hermosabeach]

OK - Water is Wet

Like the idiot I am, I loaded a batch of fairly hot 158 grain SWC. they left a fair amount of leading in my revolver. In a Marlon, they developed more pressure and left lead all the way down the bore.

What a pain to clean out all the lead.... so now if I load lead, I keep it slower and look for an accurate load.

Some claim gas checks allow you to load to mag specs and not lead your barrel. I would rather try powder coating lead if I need for things o go fast.....


700X was one of my child hood 38 special powders

H2400 for .357 mag and 44 mag loads

https://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?381165-Test-of-Hercules-vs-Alliant-2400-in-the-357-Magnum-with-6-different-primers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpvM1CxRWfQ