Anyone else use 2400 in 38?
- Thread starter RougeLeader1
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Did a lot of testing with 2400 in the 38spl cases for loads in a snubnosed revolver.
With 158gr bullets or heavier 2400 holds it's own. I was getting 900fps+ using several bullets in a 2" bbl'd 38spl. The slower powder gave more of a push for recoil rather then the snappy crack/jump of the faster powders.
With 158gr bullets or heavier 2400 holds it's own. I was getting 900fps+ using several bullets in a 2" bbl'd 38spl. The slower powder gave more of a push for recoil rather then the snappy crack/jump of the faster powders.
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RougeLeader1
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Forrest, thats another reason why I like it. I don't use it in snubbies as I was able to dial in a nice Titegroup load, but I do like the recoil impulse. That 950-1000 fps mark is about what I get in my Model 10 as well. (Higher than yours, but longer barrel)
Other than that, sounds like every has generally had my same experience. Good to know.
In terms of the load itself guys, that isn't changing. I appreciate the words of caution, but I know for a fact the load is safe and performs well in my particular firearms based on both extensive use (again, back when I was a stupid noobie) and extensive testing using high-speed DAQs and strain gauges on the barrel, cylinder, and frame. I also load these rounds with projectiles used only for this round, in marked brass which, then go into marked containers. The chances of their being loaded into other firearms is extremely low.
Other than that, sounds like every has generally had my same experience. Good to know.
In terms of the load itself guys, that isn't changing. I appreciate the words of caution, but I know for a fact the load is safe and performs well in my particular firearms based on both extensive use (again, back when I was a stupid noobie) and extensive testing using high-speed DAQs and strain gauges on the barrel, cylinder, and frame. I also load these rounds with projectiles used only for this round, in marked brass which, then go into marked containers. The chances of their being loaded into other firearms is extremely low.
Too bad I don't have any of those powders listed, other than Unique. H240 hasn't been produced in decades. Still, I last loaded some 158gr .38 Special and had a blast shooting them. I told myself .357 was next, but then I got busy processing .223 brass and haven't loaded anything in over a week.
Dunross
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I have used 2400 in 38spl, BUT those loads were only fired in a carbine or six-inch N-frame revolver. I didn't have a chrono so can't speak to the velocity, but they were dirtier than my Unique loads and didn't seem to do anything cleaner burning loads would not do so I stopped loading it in that cartridge.
I seem to recall trying Blue Dot as well in 38s, but it didn't leave an impression on me so it must not have performed well.
It has always been easier to come by 38 brass than 357 so back in my "load them to the ragged edge" days I tried some pretty hot stuff. Didn't care for H110 in 38 carbine loads either.
I didn't have a revolver chambered in 38spl then, only 357s, so no chance of them getting used in the wrong gun and for developmental loads would not share them with anyone else.
I seem to recall trying Blue Dot as well in 38s, but it didn't leave an impression on me so it must not have performed well.
It has always been easier to come by 38 brass than 357 so back in my "load them to the ragged edge" days I tried some pretty hot stuff. Didn't care for H110 in 38 carbine loads either.
I didn't have a revolver chambered in 38spl then, only 357s, so no chance of them getting used in the wrong gun and for developmental loads would not share them with anyone else.
My favorite - Warning above 38 Special maximum
38 Special Case
14 grains Alliant 2400
CCI-550 Primer
158 grain Speer Deep Curl (most accurate) or Speer JHP or MagTech (least accurate)
1.500” COAL
1150 fps from a 6” Smith & Wesson 586. I use 38 special cases because they are better looking than 357 Mag cases.
38 Special Case
14 grains Alliant 2400
CCI-550 Primer
158 grain Speer Deep Curl (most accurate) or Speer JHP or MagTech (least accurate)
1.500” COAL
1150 fps from a 6” Smith & Wesson 586. I use 38 special cases because they are better looking than 357 Mag cases.
res45
Member
The old Lyman #45 manual has plenty of load data using 2400 with standard 38 special loads. Regardless of if the loads listed are using jacketed or cast bullets velocities are on par with other powders listed for that bullet weight it just takes more 2400 to get the same results.
It's not the best option but it will work especially in revolvers with longer barrels that will benefit from the slower burn rate. The only loads put up in 38 special brass using 2400 that interest me are the Skeeter loads using the Lyman 358156 which I have a NOE clone of. I like to run those on the low end 357 Mag. range.
It's not the best option but it will work especially in revolvers with longer barrels that will benefit from the slower burn rate. The only loads put up in 38 special brass using 2400 that interest me are the Skeeter loads using the Lyman 358156 which I have a NOE clone of. I like to run those on the low end 357 Mag. range.
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Kevin Keith
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Yes, I've loaded .38 Special for a while. The Skeeter Skelton load for .357 Mag guns and the loads below for .38 Special guns.
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