What is your favorite cast SD/HD bullet and load in 38 Spl standard velocity for use in snub noses? Anytime type, SWC, RNL, DEWC, HBWC…
I’m leaning towards a classic 150gr - 158 gr SWC, Lyman 358477 for instance, or your generic cast 158 gr SWC. 4.7 grs Unique, 4.0 grs W231 or 3.5 grs Bullseye are working out well for me in the accuracy and controllability departments using both the bullets mentioned (Firearm S&W 442 1 7/8”).
I understand some people prefer a cast DEWC full wadcutter load. But these are difficult to reload with your standard speed strips or speed loaders. For my reloads I prefer a 158 gr RNL (Lyman 358311) with 3.5 grs Bullseye or 4.0 grs W231 in speed strips…quick to reload and they adequately penetrate from short barrels. I know I’ll hear that 158 gr RNL are ineffective but I hear other arguments to the contrary.
Overall, I think a standard velocity 38 Spl using 158 grs bullets is satisfactory for SD/HD.