.380 bullet size??

[leadhead]

What do you guys size your cast bullets to for the .380?
Also, what are your loads for different type powders.
Have 231, titegroup, unique. Thanks for any info...
Denny

[rheagunman]

I use the Lee .356 sizer & titegroup powder with a middle of the road data from Lyman's reloading book.

[OptimusPanda]

I found .356" too small and use .358". All my 380 loads jacketed or cast use bullseye.

[Ed_Shot]

I load for a Bersa Thunder and a Colt Mustang. I size to .358 and like the Lyman 356242 (90 gr.) over Unique 3.4 gr.

[farmerjim]

Ruger LCP. Cast sized .357 use Herco or Unique.

[Outpost75]

Ruger LCP, SIG P230 and Beretta M1934, in all use Accurate 35-120H or 35-122T.

The original bullets tested were sized down castings intended for 9x18 MAK, shown in the photos. The drawing shows current designator for the .357" version for the .380 ACP and .38 Special on Accurate's web site if you want to order the mold.

Large meplat does not need to expand. Heavier bullet gives suitable recoil impulse equal to Euro hardball. Impressive penetration from the LCP exceeds FMJ hardball with better "crush."

179131

In the .380 ACP appropriate load is 2.5 grains of Bullseye, ALWAYS with bullets sized .358!
BIG difference in accuracy with .357 or .358 bullets, compared to smaller, which lead!
Velocity is 820 fps in 3.4" barrel, and 720 fps in a 2.75" barrel.
The 20-shot composite target below was shot with the Ruger LCP off sandbags.

179121179124
179125179126

[Harter66]

I have a 359-88 NOE . It will plunk test as cast at .360 in the LCP I load for the bbl however is just .354.