W231 in .357 with 158gr plated question.

[2meterB]

Load data I've found indicates 4.4-5.0 max load, fps under 900, pressure seems low on paper. This is for LSWC.

There's also Hornady XTP which is at least 2 grains hotter, and closer to what I'd expect.

I'm using Xtreme 158gr RNFP.

I'm assuming the LSWC load data is to account for the bullet being lead, but I know xtreme plated don't really have issues under 1200fps anyway.

I'd like to get a better powder for this, but so far this is all I've been able to find.

Any reason I can't start loading past 5.0? I want something a little closer to really feeling like .357 for practice purposes.

[Fishslayer]

Well, the makers say to run the plated at lead to mid jacketed levels. I think you looked at the same data I have. If it was me I'd probably start at the starting load for the jacketed & work up. My guess is that you'll find best accuracy at around midrange anyway.

Actually, if it was me I'd find some Blue Dot or 2400 and do it right.

I run the Xtreme 158gr plated SWC on 14gr of 2400 with no issues, though I do trim my brass & go easy on the roll crimp.

Does the RNFP have a canellure? If not I'd be careful about trying to get too much out of 'em.

[2meterB]

I've been looking! I'm trying to save the powder for my 380acp anyway.


It does have cannelure.
I've been putting a fairly light roll crimp on.

I'm shooting from a 2.25 barrel, fwiw.

Thanks.

[Fishslayer]

I'm shooting from a 2.25 barrel, fwiw.

Thanks.

If you're shooting 'em in a J frame snubby or some other lightweight then bullet jump might be an issue. I futzed around with some fast powder magnum loads and the recoil was pretty brutal and that was in an L frame. I was using JHP with a stout crimp. Just something to keep an eye on.

[2meterB]

It's a ruger SP101. Factory .357 has significant but manageable recoil.

[cindynles]

Well, the makers say to run the plated at lead to mid jacketed levels. I think you looked at the same data I have. If it was me I'd probably start at the starting load for the jacketed & work up. My guess is that you'll find best accuracy at around midrange anyway.

Actually, if it was me I'd find some Blue Dot or 2400 and do it right.

I run the Xtreme 158gr plated SWC on 14gr of 2400 with no issues, though I do trim my brass & go easy on the roll crimp.

Does the RNFP have a canellure? If not I'd be careful about trying to get too much out of 'em.

H110 for the WIN!!!!!!

This is my 158gr Plated load (15.5gr H110) out of a 4" S&W 586