pharmpoke
06-12-2014, 11:44 PM
Just picked up a Marlin model 1894 carbine 357mag 18" microgroove barrel made in 1982 and would like to hear your favorite/most accurate 38 special or +P loads with a cast 158gr SWC. Mine are from the RCBS and drop 156gr from air cooled wheel weight sized to .358, lubed with 50/50 white label. I'm well aware every gun is unique and that bullet size, lube, alloy, velocity, etc are all significant variables to consider with each gun. I haven't slugged the barrel because I'd prefer to just cast one bullet for my handguns and this rifle; .358 shoot best in the revolvers I own. So far there has been no leading with the loads I've tried from 800fps up to 1100fps. I'm interested to see if there is a particular powder or load or velocity or bullet size that tends to be more accurate in a gun of this configuration, so the more responses the better. FYI my best load so far has been 4gr Titegroup, Winchester brass, CCI primers at 1094fps producing consistent sub 1.5inch five shot groups at 50yds scoped. This is my first Marlin and from what I've read anything under 2inches at 50 yards is considered a decent cast boolit load. Let me hear from you.