358429 in .357 Mag S & W # 66?

[hc18flyer]

I was asked to reload some .357 Mag for a friend. I was hoping to use some 358429 powder coated bullets. Is the 66 cylinder long enough to crimp in the crimp groove? Or will I have to crimp over the front driving band? Looking for a 'utility's cast load, and have a good variety of pistol powders, any suggestions? I do have Lyman manuals to consult, hoping to find a good load right off the bat. Thanks, hc18flyer

[AnthonyB]

The 358429 will seat at the crimp groove in the M66 but is heavier by far than needed for a utility load. I have used 2400 and H110 when loading them for my 357s.
Tony

[hc18flyer]

I have other swc and rnfp molds in the 150 to 160 grain range. Just thought the 358429 suited the magnum? hc18flyer

[stubshaft]

A 358156 would be more appropriate.

[hc18flyer]

A 358156 would be more appropriate.

I don't have that mold yet. Mostly loading for .38 Special. I do have NOE's 160 grain wfn in a plain base. I think that would give some serious 'Smack' at 1000+ fps!

[ddixie884]

True that.............

[45DUDE]

I have a 4 cavity 358429 that drops at .360. I shoot them in a 19-3 which is a model 66 cylinder length. They wont work in a 27 unless seated over the front band. I shoot 200's also. The Lee book has correct seating for different cylinder lengths. I use 2400 on the low side for punching holes in targets with both. Unique is good on the low side also.

[6thtexas]

The 358429 has always worked great in my old model 19. I keep the charges moderate as I do not want to wear out the K frame. 12.0 or 12.5 grains 2400 (crimped in the crimp groove and loaded in a 357 case) works great, is easy on the revolver, and will do anything I am apt to use a 357 for. No need for gas checks. 6.0 grains of Unique and a 358477 HP also works good.

[curiousgeorge]

6ThTexas got to it before me, but he is exactly correct. In a 357 case 12.0 to 12.5 grs max of 2400 is what I use with the 358429 in a magnum case seated to the crimp groove for my old Mod 19. No over stressing and a solid load. Actually feed it more often that bullet in a 38 Special case over 5 grs of Unique.

[357Mag]

HC -

Howdy !

I like to shoot the 358429 in my .357Mag loads.

RX -
14.5gr WW296 ( H110 same stuff ) and SP Magnum primer. Been my favorite .357Mag load for 45+ years.


8gr SR4756 if you got any, also works well ( a little sooty ).


With regards,
357Mag

[rintinglen]

My model 66 has shot hundreds of 358-429, but no where near as many as 358-477's. 14.0 grains of 2400 or 6.9 grains of Unique and crimped in the crimp groove. Truth to tell, the 358-477 shot better for me (sorry, Elmer.)

[44MAG#1]

I shot many of the 173 Keith in the 38 Special cases with 13.5 grains of 2400 and STD primers in a M19. Did well.
I would back to maybe 12.8 grains of 2400 and work up. Powder lots vary and so do primers.