I just returned from firing my 642. I had gone to shoot my Glock 26 and before leaving decided to shoot my J frame that was in my pocket. I was firing 5 shots of Hornady Critical Defence 110 std pressure. I was pleased. I shot at 10 yards and 3/5 were in a group I could cover with a quarter but were 3" low, #4 was a 1/2 below that and #5 well lets discuss #5. I guess my question is. I am really happy with the accuracy. I can say my accuracy with my j frame was actually better and more consistant than my 26. I know that I only shot my 642 5 times and my 26 50 so had I continued to shoot my J frame accuracy may have dimensihed. In all reality its the first five shots Im worried about anyway. I guess I have babbled all this to ask. How would I raise point of impact without raising point of aim. Would a heavier bullet have a higher impact point. Dont get me wrong I realize its a snub and for what it is I should be pleased but why. If I go to another bullet that is as accurate and is in the bull all the better. I had chosed the 110 because they were standard pressure and I assume I could get a quicker follow up shot with less recoil. What do you think or recommend?
Suprised at 642 accuracy but...
- Thread starter camsdaddy
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critter
Member
Yes, typically heavier and slower bullets will have a higher POI. HAVE to check to verify however.
Bula
Member
You are correct, fixed sight .38 specials are typically POA/POI regulated for 158g loads.
I've had very good luck with the Speer 135gr +p Gold Dot out of my 642...it actually hits very close to 148gr WC loads, which I use for practice.
When I'm shooting for beer/pizza money out at 25 or 50 yards, I do load with 158gr ball
When I'm shooting for beer/pizza money out at 25 or 50 yards, I do load with 158gr ball
BADUNAME37
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Wouldn't a slower bullet shoot higher because it is spending more time in the barrel during the recoil and exiting when the gun is at more of a recoil than with a bullet that is a lot faster?
sixgunner455
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Friend, you are correct. Heavier, slower bullets have a higher trajectory, and hence tend to hit higher at 642-type ranges, precisely because of spending more time in the barrel and having the barrel at a higher angle when they exit than do faster and lighter bullets.
General rule: Faster hits lower, slower hits higher.
General rule: Faster hits lower, slower hits higher.
Heavier bullets do impact higher. My two 642's, & two 60's love WW White Box 125 gr JHP +P from Wal-Mart. Accurate beyond reason, & shoots to point of aim. That's what stays loaded in mine. Not a premium load, but considering the accuracy exhibited, I'll take it over loads that cost twice as much!
ArchAngelCD
Member.
camsdaddy,
Two things.
First, you only fired 5 rounds so you can't make any assumptions or decisions on what happened or what to do on such a small sampling. Fire 40 or 50 rounds and see what happens.
Secondly, there's really no need to change ammo type or weight if you like the ammo you're using and feel it will perform well. One of the reasons you practice with your carry ammo is to get used to what that ammo will do in your revolver. If you do find out that ammo always hits 3" low or 3" to the left or right you will have to adjust your POA accordingly. Everyone who shoots a fixed sight handgun has to make those adjustments, it's not a big deal.
If you aren't very happy with the ammo you're carrying and want to change, like said several times above a heavier bullet will raise the POI. S&W fixed sight .38 Special revolvers are sighted in using a 158gr bullet. (The FBI Load comes to mind)
Two things.
First, you only fired 5 rounds so you can't make any assumptions or decisions on what happened or what to do on such a small sampling. Fire 40 or 50 rounds and see what happens.
Secondly, there's really no need to change ammo type or weight if you like the ammo you're using and feel it will perform well. One of the reasons you practice with your carry ammo is to get used to what that ammo will do in your revolver. If you do find out that ammo always hits 3" low or 3" to the left or right you will have to adjust your POA accordingly. Everyone who shoots a fixed sight handgun has to make those adjustments, it's not a big deal.
If you aren't very happy with the ammo you're carrying and want to change, like said several times above a heavier bullet will raise the POI. S&W fixed sight .38 Special revolvers are sighted in using a 158gr bullet. (The FBI Load comes to mind)
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