Need RED DOT load for my 44

[DanWalker]

Hi Guys,
Yesterday I got the bulldog44 I ordered last week.
I'm wanting loads for a 240gr SWC and a 200grJHP, using RED DOT.
Any got some that are safe for this gun?
I tried 6 grains under the jhps today and they were sweet to shoot, but 4" low.
Thanks,
Dan

[Dale53]

Dan;

Look here:
http://www.alliantpowder.com/reloaders/RecipeDetail.aspx?title=Pistols%20and%20Revolvers&gtypeid=1&weight=200&shellid=1027&bulletid=85

and here:

http://www.alliantpowder.com/reloaders/RecipeDetail.aspx?title=Pistols%20and%20Revolvers&gtypeid=1&weight=240&shellid=1027&bulletid=88

Alliant's web site gives you all of the data for all of their powders.

Dale53

[Ghugly]

Sierra lists 6.7gr max for 180gr and 210gr JHC's and 6.5gr max for 250gr FPJ Match bullet. I haven't found a lot of listed loads for Red Dot in the .44 Special. If 6.5gr is safe for a jacketed 250gr bullet, it should be dandy for a 240gr boolit. I don't know why there is so little data available for Red Dot in the .44 Special, it should be a good powder for it.

I'm currently loading for a couple of Bulldogs and would appreciate hearing about any loads that you find that work well for you. I only have one load that I'm really happy with. I've found that the 250gr 429421 with the round lube groove and the small front driving band shoots to point of aim and is quite accurate when loaded with 13gr of 2400. Unfortunately, this is a real thumper that is not a lot of fun to plink with.

[Frank V]

Dan, The starting load for Trailboss is 4gr with a 240 cast LSWC & a Max of 5.2gr. I have been using Trailboss in the .45 Colt & .44 Special with very good results. I like the way it half fills the case making double charges very unlikely. It also burns clean & is accurate. You may want to try it in your Bulldog. I like this powder. Frank

[Frank V]

Dan, looking at my 2005 Alliant load manual I find A Red Dot 4.3gr load listed at 740fps & 11,900psi with a 246gr lead bullet. This is a max load in this book. The Bulldog isn't as strong as the S&# N frames so I'd go slowly with it & not overstress it. I kinda like the Bulldog myself, & there are few factory .44 Specials offered now. Frank