Well, I have set up a deal to buy or at least look at a DW 357 tomorrow after work. Found it on a local trading site and the price seems good. Picture is so poor that I can't tell anything about the condition or which factory the revo came from. Have several S&Ws, but none in 357. Owner says he has fired less than 50 rnds thru it, but he got it used. He doesn't know the model, but I am hoping it turns out to be a Monson 15-2. I understand those are the most desirable. Are there any DW 357 models to stay away from? Owner wants $350, but if there is any finish wear or looseness I will try for less. Does that sound like a good deal assuming it is a tight, clean revolver? Looking at mold choices, it seems that most 357 molds are plain base. I do want to make magnum level loads, but have no interest in pushing the envelope. I may just start out with a Lee six cavity TL mold, but am open to suggestions. Come to think of it, I have a Lee 6cav 358/125TC mold that I use for 9x19 with a bunch on hand sized .358. Maybe those would work for starters, but I may be happier with something in the 158gr range. I do fine with the TL molds in .45 and 9x19, but have never loaded for 357. Might a plain base mold be OK to start with? I know that I need to measure the throats to be sure what it needs. As for powders, I have 2400, 296, and that new alliant M300 to choose from for now. I am kinda excited about getting my first 357 revolver. A little embarrassing that I have never owned one. any suggestions would be appreciated.
DanM