44 Mag loads with H4198

[wquiles]

In my quest for a load that was not position sensitive, I experimented with H4198 in my 44 Magnum revolver 12-13 years ago.

These loads I loaded back in 2001, and were created at 100% powder density (to slightly compressed), and yes, there is un-burned power (not a lot), and I get around 1050 fps with the 250gr LBT bullet, which is easy on the hands but still respectable on the receiving end. QuickLoad predicted about 1106 fps at 100% powder density. I used to have a Marlin 44 Mag rifle, and on the longer barrel I used to pick about 350fps more speed. Now that I have loads with TrailBoss at 100% density, I might not need this one as "often" for a fun/plinking load :)

No accuracy date yet. Once I get a Red Dot for my revolver I will report back on accuracy, but since I got some data today, I wanted to share the numerical data:

44 Magnum Ruger SBH/Bisley, 4-5/8" barrel, .4305" bore, .431-32" cyl bore
WLP, RP cases=1.275", LBT 250gr LFN GC sized .431", OAL= 1.712", 27.0gr H4198
5-shot group, showing top->bottom in each column: low, high, average, spread, SD

http://m3coupe.com/Firearms/loads/44mag/H4198/20140706_123425.jpg

[rintinglen]

8% roughly high low for 15 shots ES. Not bad, especially if that 1104 is as far out of the middle as seems to be the case.
IMR 4198 was the first powder I ever tried in the 44 Magnum, but it was too dirty for my use--too many un- or partially burned kernels for me.
These days, though, with powder so hard to come by, I can't fault anybody for experimenting.

[wquiles]

8% roughly high low for 15 shots ES. Not bad, especially if that 1104 is as far out of the middle as seems to be the case.
IMR 4198 was the first powder I ever tried in the 44 Magnum, but it was too dirty for my use--too many un- or partially burned kernels for me.
These days, though, with powder so hard to come by, I can't fault anybody for experimenting.

Yup, the unburned kernels is definitely a negative for this load. But velocities have been pretty good :razz:

[TCLouis]

I have used WC 680 and AA1680 with Hornady 300 grain coated projie.

Accurate and about 1100 fps out of a 9 1/2" SRH.

Plan to try it behind the Ranch Dog 265 and Lee 310 to actually use.

[wquiles]

I am also planning to try a 265gr Ranch Dog design, specifically these from Carolina Cast Bullets, sized .432", which should be ideal for my particular revolver:

265 grain RNFL gascheck
sized .432" for 444 Marlin
and 44 Magnum rifles

This bullet is from Ranch Dog Outdoors and is designed for the 444 Marlin / 44 Magnum lever action rifles. We show it here for those who wish to shoot a heavier bullet in 44 handguns. It can be sized to .430" for that purpose.
http://www.carolinacastbullets.com/44_Special___44_Magnum.html


Will