Archive for July, 2009

.357 magnum reloading?

Thursday, July 30th, 2009
abuelo asked:


Does anyone have specific data/experience for a .357 magnum load for a 2,5” barrel?
I’m looking for a safe magnum load with slightly faster burning rate powders (because of the short barrel), only for self-defence, with 125 and 158 SJ-SP .358” bullets.
So far I had best results with heavier bullets (SJ and lead), but i been told that the lighter ones shoud have been a better choice in such a snub nose. Any hints about that?
Which powders (hodgdon, Vihtavuori, WW, Nitrokemia Rex)?

I’m a long time reloader, but i’d like to read your opinion and experiences.
Specifically, the gun is a superb SW vintage model 19.
Thank you in advantage for your answers.

Thanx Violation Challenged – I know the matter about k-frame and full-load magnum diet. I usually shoot less than magnum loads (for paper)
about the manual, i already noticed some. but the question is: shoud I choose a (for ex) v-N110 or a less progressive powder? how many fps can i take out of the 2,5″ barrel? can a short barrel and a less progressive powder give a magnum load?
We know that .357 mag use progressive powder and between 6″ and 2,5″ there’s a huge loss of fps… i would like to fix a little the loss of power with the right components.

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is it safe to fire a 25 after it has sat for 25 years without being shot?

Monday, July 27th, 2009
CleoCATra asked:


The gun, clip and box of bullet was stored in a plastic grocery bag for the last 25 years and hasn’t been shot. The clip was loaded but NOT IN the gun. Those bullets turned green so I removed them. Is it safe to reload with the bullets from the box (they look like new bullets) and is it safe to target shoot with the gun.????
It hasn’t been cleaned or used in about 26 years.

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Reloading for 400 Astra?

Thursday, July 16th, 2009
newell asked:


I own an Astra 400 in 9mm Largo. It was for export to America and was chambered for 9mm Large or .38 Colt. NOT .38 super. Could I load .38 super for this gun, provided I lower the powder charge to .38 Colt levels?
sigh. I said this was a special export version chambered with a compromise chamber for 9mm Largo and .38 Colt Auto. .38 Colt Auto has much lower chamber pressure than .38 super, but identical dimensions.

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Shot shell reloading?

Thursday, July 16th, 2009
r7r8 asked:


i have a shadow express air shotgun that shoots # 9 shot. i was wandering if i put like #8 or #7 if it would be better suited for squirrels but maintaing velocity. this gun is great for taking down birds i love it.

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