WW231 and 357 Mag with 158 gr LSWC

[Hi-Speed]

I’ve used in the past and will soon load more, a 357 Magnum mid range load using 6.0 grs WW231 under 158 gr cast SWC. This load was based on 1997 Winchester load data for 158 gr lead bullet using WW231 powder (a low of 6.2 grs to max, if I recall, of 6.7 grs). Never had it chronographed but it’s accuracy is pretty good. All of today’s data for this bullet powder combination limits WW231 to 5.4 grs under 158 gr LSWC…I guess to reduce the risk of leading?

In any case, I would still imagine that my 6.0 grs charge of WW231 and 158 gr LSWC is still a safe round in my Ruger BH. I see that WW231 is still obtainable and I’m trying to find a replacement for Unique, which rarely can be found nowadays, for a 1,000 fps mid range load. I should get at least 1,000 fps using 6.0 grs WW231/158 gr LSWC combination.

Appreciate your thoughts, recommendations and experiences using WW231 for 158 gr SWC mid range 357 Magnum loads.

Thank you all,

Eric

[dannyd]

Hodgdon web site list 3.4 to 5 grains of 231; I use 4 grains groups well at 25 yards.

[Hi-Speed]

That’s more like a 38 Spl load, and a good one in fact.

[dannyd]

I only need enough energy to go throw the paper.

[Hi-Speed]

I only need enough energy to go throw the paper.

The “paper” out here in the mountains can eat you…

[Bird]

I have loaded 6.2grns of 231 under a 158g swc, which is the start load for the 158xtp bullet. I have not shot them yet. I will see how the lower loads perform first.
Work up your load and see what's safe, and does not lead.

[Kosh75287]

When I run out of Unique, I like AA#5, BE-86, or Herco. The last 2 are Alliant powders, so they may be similarly scarce.

[stubshaft]

You load should definitely be safe in a BH.

[derek45]

6.9gr 231 is the Hodgon max with a jacketed bullet

I've been shooting 6.5gr with any 158gr for many many years, it's very accurate

My Ruger GP100 4.2" shot hits on steel at 90 yards. 6.5gr Win231, SNS 158gr RNFP coated,

[Hi-Speed]

Thanks derek45…great load development and marksmanship!