Over the last few weeks I’ve chronographed Rem/Win/Fed 38 Special +P 158 gr LHP “FBI Loads.”
In summary:
Remington:
Hi 951
Lo 898
Avg 925
ES 53
SD 18
Federal:
Hi 901
Lo 862
Avg 880
ES 39
SD 10
Winchester:
Hi 929
Lo 826
Avg 891
ES 103
SD 25
I was expecting higher velocities in my firearm. My previous handloads, which I thought were FBI Load duplicates, exceeded the factory FBI Load velocities usually by 50 fps (or 5%). Maybe this is ball park, but the factory loadings above can easily be duplicated with a 158 gr cast SWC with 5.0 - 5.2 grs Unique, 4.5 - 4.7 grs W231 or 5.4 - 5.6 grs of Power Pistol, at least in my revolver.
I also recognize the variables as the longer 357 Cylinder, gap tolerances, environmental conditions etc but I’m just equipped with my trusty Ruger Blackhawk, a 1950s sturdy folding table, metal chair, a $150 chronograph, ammo and beautiful and sunny Nevadan days…
Peace to all,
Eric