357mag range report

[Jwbfx4]

Loaded up a few test loads to run through a new to me marlin 1894c.

Loaded some Missouri Bullet 158gr RN Hi Tek Coated with 6.0 grains of Unique in 357 mag range brass. Accuracy was great and no leading. Also ran the same loads through a ruger gp 100 with great results. This load is a keeper.

Then I tried the same load and bullet but not coated. 12 rounds in on the pistol noticed decent leading at the beginning. Due to some other test loads I figured this would be best for accuracy, but a little much on leading.

Back to the rifle, I had 3 different test loads with 2400. Used Missouri Bullet 158 gr. SWC bhn18.

14.0grs - accuracy wasn’t great and no leading

14.3grs - accuracy was better but not promising. No leading.

14.5grs - about a 6” group at 25 yards no leading, but got to improve accuracy. Decent kick on all these.

All in all it was a good day. Just got to get something going with 2400.

Before I left I ran another load through the GP 100 to test the accuracy.
38 special brass with Missouri Bullet 158 grain RN loaded with 4.1 grains of W231. Accuracy was good but got leading down the barrel. This is my go to for a light target load out of a smith 686 2.5”. Looks like the ruger doesn’t like it as much.

 

[tightgroup tiger]

Does your Marlin have a Micro-groove barrel?

 

[kcofohio]

I have ran several MBC 158 SWC "Action" with 5.0 gr. of HP-38/W231 with no lead fouling. Both guns were 4" barrels. But 5 gr. of Titegroup is now my norm for light 357 loads.

 

[Jwbfx4]

Does your Marlin have a Micro-groove barrel?

Yes it is a micro groove barrel. So far it’s a tack driver with the 6.0 unique with 158 cast bullet. Added a skinner peep sight to it to better my shooting.

I have ran several MBC 158 SWC "Action" with 5.0 gr. of HP-38/W231 with no lead fouling. Both guns were 4" barrels. But 5 gr. of Titegroup is now my norm for light 357 loads.

Interesting, I will load up a few to test and see how my gun performs. Although I’m going to keep trying to find what it likes with 2400 just for those days want to shoot a little full power.

 

[tightgroup tiger]

Your 2400 loads may be more than the micro groove barrel can handle. The bullet is stripping in the microgroove rifling. That may be why the accuracy is off and your getting leading.
Try shooting some jacketed bullets with those same loads and see if the groups tighten way up.