265g HornadyFTX with 2400 in 44 mag revolver

[Bull Nutria]

I cant find any data for this combination. i have been using 18g of 2400 with this bullet in a 44mag handi rifle. no sign of over pressure. I have a S&W model 69 revolver. I was wondering if this 18 g of 2400 with the 265g FTX would be over max charge for this handgun?

if you know on any data online or in a manual for this combo please point me in the correct direction.

thanks,

Bull

 

[gamestalker]

I think that the M69 is a rather robust revolver by design. The fact that the cylinder notches are placed between cylinders instead of directly over them, adds some strength to the cylinders. This combined with it being a 5 shot cylinder, certainly puts a little more steel where it's needed.

I think I might back the load down a tad,, maybe start around 17 gr. and work back up if everything looks ok regarding pressures. Alliant shows 17.5 grs. with a 270 gr. Gold Dot, and those loads are published max, so general rule of thumb is to back down 10% from those published loads.

GS

 

[Rule3]

Using the FTX bullets Hornady recommends trimming the cases shorter to 1.255" or you will trouble fitting in the revolver due to the length of the bullet ogive
So longer bullet, shorter case, I would check.

Hornady manual #8 does not list the FTX with 2400, perhaps the newer version does?? So I would also lower the charge.

The M 69 is a L frame (Like a 686) rather than a N frame like the 629 but based on what SW states it is up to the task of full magnum loads

Your best bet is to call Hornady if they have not updated their new manual.

Maybe someone will chime in that has the newest version.

 

[gamestalker]

Good catch Rule3, I forgot about the need to trim the brass shorter for those FTX bullets. So ya, you would be wise to maybe start a bit lower than for a typical jacketed 265 grainer.

GS

 

[CraigC]

This is a very poor choice in bullets. Possibly the worst choice possible. The 265gr FTX was designed for .444Marlin levergun. The shape and pointed tip flies flatter at longer ranges. At 4" revolver velocities, it's probably not going to expand at all.

 

[Rule3]

This is a very poor choice in bullets. Possibly the worst choice possible. The 265gr FTX was designed for .444Marlin levergun. The shape and pointed tip flies flatter at longer ranges. At 4" revolver velocities, it's probably not going to expand at all.

Yep, a good old regular XTP is mo betterer.

 

[gamestalker]

No doubt, which is why I don't the FTX in a revolver application.

Grab some XTP's and let em fly.

GS