Larry Gibson
posted this
23 November 2019
I've several moulds for 38/357 cartridges, including the 358156, 358477 and TL358-158-SWC along with other designs, that I've used in numerous 38/357 revolvers, single shots and rifles over the years. If used in true top end 38 SPL +P, 38/44 and 357 Magnum level loads where accuracy with softer expandable alloys is wanted the GC'd 358156 has always proven to be the best. It also is best if, even with "harder" alloys, in single shots and rifles if velocity is pushed over 1200 - 1300 fps.
For standard 38 SPL loads with any decent alloy, binary or ternary, the PB'd bullets do as well. The same in low end or midrange 357 magnum cases; the PB's do as well.
Most all of my standard 38 SPLs these days are loaded with the TL358-158-SWC over 3.5 gr Bullseye simply by virtue the mould is a 6 cavity. The top end +Ps are 358156s cast of 40-1, sized .358, GC'd and lubed with BAC and loaded over 5.5 gr Unique (pressure tested right at the SAAMI MAP). After loading they are HP'd with the Forster 1/*" HP tool. In expansion tests they give equal penetration and better expansion that the Winchester "FBI +P load.
The 358477s are usually cast of a ternary alloy, sized .358 and lubed with BAC then loaded in 357 Magnum cases over 6 gr Unique for a very good mid range level load.
In the 357 magnum my top end true magnum level load is the 358156 cast of 16-1 alloy, GC'd, sized .358 and lubed with BAC then loaded over 14.5 gr Alliant 2400. The bullet, after loaded, is HP'd with the Forster 1/8" HP tool. That load has proven to be excellent is used in my Ruger Security Six, Contender, rifles and any Ruger BHs I come into possession of. This load pressure test at or slightly over the SAAMI 35,000 psi MAP. I do not use it in my M19 2/2" as the 38 SPL +Ps are best for it.
LMG
Concealment is not cover.........