Sounds like you're using a Rainier or a Berry's plated type bullet. I've been using these quite a bit and they advise using data for a lead bullet of similar design. I was looking at the booklet put out by Accurate and also the load data on line published by Hodgdon. I'm using anywhere from 1.440-1.445 OAL for this bullet type with decent results. I haven't used Unique or Bullseye very much but data for both put the OAL between these measurements.

 

Hi RugerGP357,
as far as the seating debth go's, min 1.425 and max 1.550, as far as the charg go's, there is quite a differance between Bullseye and Unique. Also if you want a +P load or a standard one.

Here is what the Alliant book that I have says:

4.4 grains Bullseye = 1,000 fps @ 15,300 fps "standard load"
5.3 grains Unique = 1,015 fps @ 16,000 fps "standard load"
4.8 grains Bullseys = 1,090 fps @ 17,500 fps "+P load"
5.6 grains Unique = 1,070 fps @ 17,500 fps "+P load"

don't excede the +P load amount but have fun playing with lighter loads. The old timer that helped me get started reloading got me thinking about light loads,, saves powder and is easier on your gun.

I would be happy to pass on the great info that was passed to me.

Steve

 

Considering the purpose of a crimp groove, lacking on these bullets, I wouldn't consider loading to +P levels.

 

Do you have a reloading manual? All your questions are answered any manual. Important info besides powder charges are listed in every load manual I've ever seen. IMHO, printed reloading manuals are essential to safe reloading...

Not being flippant, or offensive. I don't think anyone can start reloading without a couple good reference manuals with a decent "how to" section. For "how to" only, The ABCs of Reloading, and a very good instruction manual with a lot of good load data is Lyman's 49th Edition Reloading Handbook. Reading these will not only help you with methods but also you'll be able to determine what equipment suits you reloading needs.

 

RugerGP357, If those bullets are jacketed and not plated ... I highly suspect they are 9mm bullets (.355") because that is a common bullet weight and design for 9mms. All jacketed bullets for a 357/38 (.357") have a cannelure.

 

they are .357 diameter (I measured them) tmj fn bullets I have 5 reloading manuals, it just seems that they like to suggest jhp, lead and rn bullets for the most part.... tmj fn is what I have on hand right now... was just looking for some info from others to see where I should be at. thanks for all of the help ill be keeping me a notebook on all this... this is good stuff right here

 

Sorry, For a revolver cartridge I would use round nose OAL, or a bit less, as long as it's not too long for the cylinder...

 

i'll work up a few rounds and hopefully get out this weekend and try them out. thanks for the info

 

If they are Rainier plated I seat them to 1.4" and use a light taper crimp.
7 grains of AA#5 was a good load from my notes.

 

hey all,
went and tested out 6 rounds I made up using the 5.3 grains of unique with an oal of 1.445. shoots great with this combo out of my GP-100. thanks for all the help.