Plated FP bullets

Toolfogie

March 07, 2010 04:26

I would like to load some .357 plated FP 158gr bullets (Midway item #164704)to 38 special +P for my 1894C Marlin for target shooting at 100 yds.I have Unique and IMR 4227 powders.
My problem is that none of my reloading manuals specifically list loads for plated FP bullets. What would be the equivalant? JSP? JHP? FMJ? XTP? Anyone have a favorite load using these components?
Thanks,
Gary

0

• 

  bpost

  March 07, 2010 05:17

  If you are loading 357 mag brass with that bullet a load of six (6) grains of Unique is a nice compromise load for that cartridge.
  
  If you are loading 38 brass then you need to drop the load by a full grain.

  0
• 

  Rocky Raab

  March 07, 2010 05:24

  To better answer the question, both Berry's and Ranier recommend (on their websites) that you use cast-billet data for their plated bullets, and do not crimp heavily.
  
  You won't get exactly the pressure or velocity that a lead bullet would give, but they will be close with plated bullets. In general, limit them to 900 fps and you'll be fine.
  
  I'm just starting range work for an article about plated bullets, as it happens. I'm shooting bullets from both makers in five cartridges. I'll keep you posted.

  0
• 

  dcs shooters

  March 07, 2010 05:56

  For 4227, 10.5grs will give you about 1288fps. 11.5gr. is max at 1382fps.
  For Unique, 6gr will give you about 1034fps.
  If you use 38 brass cut the Unique down to 5.2gr and 4227 to 10.0gr.

  0
• 

  Rocky Raab

  March 07, 2010 06:55

  Well, you can try those loads from dcs; they might work out. But in my experience, anything over 1,000 fps is going to be a poor load due to the very thin plating coat.

  0
• 

  Toolfogie

  March 07, 2010 07:15

  Thanks for the replies guys.
  I think I'll keep it under 1000 fps for now and see how it works.
  Thanks again,
  Gary

  0
• 

  Toolfogie

  May 01, 2010 16:06

  The 6 gr of unique worked out very well, with a COL of 1.590 they feed perfectly and are pretty accurate ( 2" groups off-hand at 50 yds, I should do better when I get my new sights).
  
  Can anyone recommend a load for Hornady #10208 125 gr FP using Unique or IMR 4227 that will keep the fps under 1000 from a rifle?
  
  Where do you guys find this info? I have the Lyman 49th ed, Loadbooks for 357 mag, and IMR, Alliant, and Hodgdon reloading pamphlets. Any recommendations for other reloading manuals?
  Thanks,
  Gary

  0
• 

  dcs shooters

  May 01, 2010 19:57

  Try www.hodgdon.com for load data.
  There is Hodgdon-IMR and Winchester powder data there.

  0

Please sign in to leave a comment.