HS-6 in .357 Carbine?

[jaysouth]

I have run out of Unique and 2400. I found a pound of HS 6 and intend to load it under 125 gr. JHPs I have found data in Hodgedon's manual but have no experience with it.

Anyone used this powder in .357 Mag before?

I have been loading 1680 under 180 gr. SSPs when rolling hunting loads in .357 Max loads. However, deer season is a long ways away and I intend to shoot .38 spl and .357 loads for plinking and instant death on beer cans.

 

[rogn]

Should be good for light to medium loads. I dont use it in 357 but in 45C(revolvers and carbines) and its clean and accurate. I can get to about 1100 fps w/255gr. Hodgdon's data website should cover loads.

 

[J_McLeod]

I haven't loaded it in .357, but I really like HS-6 in 9mm and .40.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I use mostly 3 powders in all my handgun loading, W231 (HP-38), W540 (HS-6) and W296 (H110). I use HS-6 in middle to middle hot .357 Magnum loads, especially with lead bullets but it works well with jacketed bullets too. I highly suggest using a magnum primer with HS-6.

 

[huntershooter]

Yes.
The advice to use "in light to medium loads.." is ill advised. "Light" loads of HS-6 result in a LOT of unburned/powder residue, to the point the cylinder will bind.
HS-6 is at it's best in moderate to upper end loads in straight wall revolver cartridges.

 

[rogn]

Light to medium loads refers to velocity potential, power level not grainage. Chamber pressure is the deciding factor. HS-6 or H110 can operate at the same pressure, but 1 uses almost twice as much powder. As with any ball powder stay within the manufacturers recommendations.