So I'm working on a hunting load for the Ruger GP100. My gun hates and has always hated any load over 1400fps. So pushing for max power isn't an option. Not to worry, cast at 1200-1400fps has always been effective.
My two bullets to work with are the Lee 358-158, both a SWC w/GC and a RNFP Plain Base.
My powders are lil gun, W572 and HS6.
Unsized bullets from the PB mold will not fit in my chambers, they cast at .359 and are a tight fit, and with PC they go to 369 and simply will not chamber. I have never tried the GC version PCed. Not sure how I would even begin.
I've had luck with both bullets tumble lubed w/GC or PCed or TLed PB, using 8-9grns of HS6 for about 1250-1300fps. Gives me 3-4" groups at 35 yards.
Similar sized groups from same bullets with 6.5-7grns of W572.
Nothing I shoot with lilgun from 16-18grns wants to group, I suspect it's all breaking that 1400fps barrier my gun has.
I have killed a couple deer using the 148grn button nose WC TL over 8grns of HS6 for about 1200fps.
Should I keep trying to push for more power, or should I settle in on one of the loads getting 3-4" at 35 yards and just be done with it?
If the latter, I would probably go with the 158PB as I can save on gas checks and I'm not noticing any accuracy difference. Input welcome.
Also...My new grips came in from Altamont Grips and they are fantastic. Compact snake skin rubber with snake skin inserts!