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ASM826
09-06-2016, 01:51 PM
I've been casting and reloading for about a decade. I'm not doing anything unusual, staying in the mid-ranges on loads, trying to be meticulous about the process, etc.

Recently purchased a Ruger GP-100, .357 revolver, and having shot a few boxes of factory, decided to add .357 to the calibers I cast for.

So here's my observation: Even though I have developed a relative level of confidence, this felt a lot like starting over from scratch. Picking a mold, sizing, lubing, setting up the press, selecting a powder and a load, O.A.L., crimp (or lack thereof), everything felt new. The best thing I could say about it was that at least I had a list of questions to start from.

And I haven't even been to the range yet, which is really where it all gets tested.

44man
09-06-2016, 02:12 PM
It always does but it sounds like you have it in hand. Everything works the same. I can't wait to hear how you do.

runfiverun
09-06-2016, 10:59 PM
when I decide on a new revolver or lever gun caliber I have to make the decision what I'm going to do with it.
hunting,target, whatever, then I zero in on the boolit design.
okay,, I just buy a rnfp mold.
but I do have to think about the above first then buy the rnfp mold and possibly a swc type mold to go with it.

Artful
09-07-2016, 02:09 AM
A always look for "classic's" when I pick a new caliber - for 38 spl RN 358311
http://www.tmtpages.com/web_images/images/Lyman%20Mold%20358311%20%20157_gr.jpg

For 357
http://americanhandgunner.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/load-1.jpg
Left to right: The Lyman #358311, 158-gr.; RCBS #38-150KT, 155-gr.; Lyman/Keith #358429, 168-gr. and Lyman/Thompson #358156GC, 155-gr.

Now having said that I also like the LEE 105 gr SWC
https://media.midwayusa.com/productimages/880x660/Primary/458/458304.jpg


Which works great in 9x19, 38 spl, 357 Mag even in my 358 WCF rifle as a plinking load and has the advantage of not taking much lead

CASTER OF LEAD
09-07-2016, 04:50 AM
I use 3 different Lee molds for my .38/ .357 cast needs. 1. 358105 SWC, 2. 358125 RNFP, and 3. an older single cavity 358150SWC. I shoot them our of my 4"bbl Taurus in both .38 and .357 . Most are shot from the .38 cases. Loaded with various Powder types depending on what I am shooting at. Just my 2 cents - Caster

avogunner
09-07-2016, 04:59 AM
I also have three molds for all my .38/.357 needs:
358311 - classic RN
358432 - WC
358156 - GC SWC (for +P or mag).
Semper Fi

Sent from my LG-H820 using Tapatalk

quack1
09-07-2016, 07:33 AM
The only mold I'd add to the other posters suggestions would be 358495.

telebasher
09-07-2016, 07:38 AM
My 2 cents = Lyman 358429 and Lee's TL 358 swc .

Ed_Shot
09-07-2016, 08:26 AM
All the Lyman molds mentioned are outstanding choices. The LEE 358-158-RF (standard lube) is also an outstanding performer. For paper punching and plinking accuracy in 38/357 (Security-Six, GP 100, and Blackhawk) I cannot beat the Lyman 358242 (120 gr).

44man
09-07-2016, 08:42 AM
Don't fear a TL boolit, just use a better lube on it, The little grooves work fine with a lube like Felix.

GhostHawk
09-07-2016, 09:22 AM
Oh happy Day! You lucky man.

Those first exciting days and weeks of a new caliber are in many respects the best.
Enjoy!

Yes in many respects it is like starting from scratch. But you start knowing what you know.
So often you can avoid the pitfalls and traps that a new shooter might fall into.

marlin39a
09-08-2016, 07:43 AM
I use a Lyman 358477 for mild loads, 358156 GC, for fast loads. Both sized .358 with canauba red on a heated 450.

44man
09-08-2016, 09:01 AM
Long ago when I had a .357, model 27, I split the barrel when a factory .38 SP stuck at the muzzle. I had S&W put an 8-3/8" ribbed barrel on it and strip the nickel to bright blue it. Cost $35 back then. I put a Phantom scope on the rib and it would do under 1" at 100 yards. 358156 HP with 2400.
Worst thing I ever did was to sell it.

Hickok
12-17-2016, 06:59 AM
Mark, take some good hearing protection with you. I believe the .357 has a harsher "crack" than my .44's or .45's. I am partially deaf due to running heavy equipment for 40+ years, and I can still tell the difference.