I recently acquired two Marlin 1894s one in 357 and the other in 44 mag. I created a second post regarding the 44 mag. This one is for my 357.
As far as I can tell it's was manufactured in 2010 so it's a Remlin. But the barrel has North Haven on it. I have had absolutely no issues with it and it feeds everything I throw at it once I get OAL figured out.
With all the research I have done here and elsewhere the 357s are not overbore like the 44 mags are and this one should be 357. I have not slugged the barrel to date but will some. I understand it should shoot 359-360 cast bullets well. I have an RCBS 150 gr SWC which is casting 158 gr bullets with the WW lead I have on hand. I am using the 358 sizer I have on hand and it is casting very close to that diameter. Accuracy has been OK but no where near my 44 mag. I have not tried jacketed bullets in it to date as I cannot find any locally. If I were to open up my mold to 359 or 360 where would I get a sizing Die for it?
Accuracy has been hit and miss with 14.5 gr of 296. One target ok other not so much. I did have decent accuracy using 125 and 158 plated bullets. I have tried Universal, H110, Win 296 and IMR 4227 because that is what I have on hand or can find locally.
I was able to score some 158 JHP Hornady from a buddy to try out.
I have also read that 170 and 180 gr cast bullets might be the ticket. Any recommended Lee molds to try? And what are thoughts on TL?
As with my 44 mag I have no idea if it's Ballard or Microgrove. Sorry for such a dumb question but I have not been able to find out what the difference is and what to look for. Excuse my ramblings and thanks for looking or any input/advice you may have to offer.