Starting To Reload

[wxl]

For a long time, the standard other calibers used as a reference for self defence (and law enforcement) was the 357 magnum 125gr...

[orrwdd]

Originally Posted by wxl

For a long time, the standard other calibers used as a reference for self defence (and law enforcement) was the 357 magnum 125gr...

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125gr and lighter .357 are not recommended for the Model 19 due to the K Frame size and potential flame cutting on the backstrap. S&W itself validated this limitation. Staying with 158gr and more 38 Special than magnums has extended the life of my 19-3 that I have had since 1972. Great Gun.

Bill

[Dave Bob]

I have a model 66 an older version with the recessed chambers that the brass sits flush with the cylinder. Its a 4" model and I shoot mostly .38s in it but it stays loaded with 158 grn. JHPs. I used to reload 158 grn JHP with 6.7 grns of 231 back in the 80s but work up to it.

Dave

[O-frame]

I get great accuracy both with Tite Group and with HP38/W231 a few tics down from their max loads. And I prefer a RNFP 130 cast boolit for such as speed steel and ICORE, as they have little recoil and work with moon clips so well.

While the standard 158 SWC does just fine, as does the RN 158, I have unexpectedly developed a real appreciation for the antique 148 DEWC as well.

I don't care for hot 125 JHP in anything.

[Dave Waits]

, what powder will work best depends on your barrel-length and what you intend the round to do. In mid-range loads, I've had alot of luck with Unique(A little dirty but accurate powder) and AA-7. Unless you have a six-inch barrel I would stay away from slower-burning powders like 2400, 296, H110, AA-9 and such.

[NAMVET72]

Dave my Smith Model 19 has a six inch barrel........

[Dave Waits]

13 grains of 2400, WSP primer,158Hardcast SWC. OAL 1.65" Does about 1325fps in my and my friends' 6" 357s.
also,6.5 grains of unique renders about the same velocity.