Guy’s
I need some help, I have only been reloading for 2 years and have been very happy with my results on paper down range and the deer in my freezer that I got with my hand loaded 357mag. But I thought maybe I could do better, I know I can do cheaper. So I just bought a Chrony Beta Master and after learning how to use it with my kids Nurf Gun I went to the range. Now my 380 and 9mm came in about 50ft/sec slower then I thought and that’s ok. But my 38 and 357mag is where I’m lost. I have a Ruger SP101 with a 2in Bbl. My 38 Spec averaged 470ft/sec, 430ft/sec slower than I was expecting. My 357mag averaged 1633ft/sec, 333 faster than expected and that has me real worried. My 38Spec receipt is 6.0gr Power Pistol, 125gr Berry HP, Federal 100 primer, and a COL 1.450. My 357mag is 14.9gr of 2400, 125gr Hornady HP-XTP, WSPM primer, and a COL of 1.590. I bought a Lee roll crimp die and crimp after seating. I do use a heavier crimp on the magnum than on the specials.
Also I might mention my 44 Spec averaged 50ft/sec faster and my 44Mag averaged 150ft/sec slower than expected.
A wise man on this forum of says to have more than just one book. I have the Hornady 7th, Speers 14th, and the Sierra's 5th Edition. I also referred to Alliant’s online Reloader Guide.
I have locked up the 357mag until I’m sure they are safe. I know you start low and work the round up but what do you base that on? I know Berry’s are cheap bullets and should not be used over 1200ft/sec so I use the Hornady on the Magnum’s. I would really appreciate any advice.
thanks,
Steve