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Post by Encore64 on Jun 28, 2023 17:40:21 GMT -5
A few months ago, I posed the question on the forum. A Ruger #3 in 25-20 WCF or 256 Winchester?
Lee was instrumental in helping make the decision. He doesn't give advice lightly and I've learned to listen.
So, off went the base gun to Jack Huntington. Details coming after pictures...
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Post by tdbarton on Jun 28, 2023 17:44:10 GMT -5
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Post by leftysixgun on Jun 28, 2023 17:52:53 GMT -5
Man I like that! That would be a lot of fun in a Contender!
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Post by Encore64 on Jun 28, 2023 17:54:26 GMT -5
Thanks Tim...
So many details to share on this one.
Barrel is 23". In a moment of indecision, I couldn't decide on 22" like the Factory #3 or 24". I just split the difference.
Chamber is very snug like most top gunsmiths tend to do. I've loaded some brass probably 10+ times with no losses. Some of the brass used was left over from load development in my Marlin 62. I have no idea how many times it's been loaded. But, it's still going strong.
Chamber was long throated to allow 87 grn Spitzers to be loaded base of bullets to the base of the neck. This allows for more powder capacity in a very small case.
Scope base is full custom. Gives the quarter rib looks of the Ruger #1 with unparalleled flexibility.
Accuracy was tested on my revolver range at 75 yards. Most groups could be covered with a dime.
Note this gun does not have the traditional Ruger #3 Barrel Band. I trimmed the forearm and reshaped it before refinishing it. The bottom picture is the only one that shows the true color. The rest look redish in the pics, for which I have no explanation...
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Post by Encore64 on Jun 28, 2023 17:57:03 GMT -5
I should explain the picture of the cartridges...
Left: 357 Magnum Brass from which the 256 Winchester is formed.
Center: 256 Winchester loaded with a Hornady 75 grn HP.
Right: 25-20 WCF.
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Post by leftysixgun on Jun 28, 2023 19:03:39 GMT -5
Is there any outside neck turning or inside neck reaming involved?
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Post by Encore64 on Jun 28, 2023 19:05:53 GMT -5
No Sir...
Just neck the 357 Mag down in the Form Die #1, Form Die #2 then FL Size in the loading dies.
Chamfer, Debur and Load...
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weiler
.30 Stingray
Posts: 423
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Post by weiler on Jun 28, 2023 20:55:03 GMT -5
I love it
and the turnaround time seem’s awful quick
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Post by AxeHandle on Jun 29, 2023 6:55:07 GMT -5
Man I like that! That would be a lot of fun in a Contender! What? You don't have one? Look around a bit. They are out there waiting for you. |
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Post by Encore64 on Jun 29, 2023 7:36:56 GMT -5
It's wicked in a 10" Contender. Was available in 10" Octagon and Round. Also, have seen a few 14".
All the custom manufacturers offer barrels so chambered...
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Post by bullseye on Jun 29, 2023 19:12:04 GMT -5
Beautiful rifle. You definitely made the correct decision IMO...As much as I love the classic 25-20 WCF, it's a DEAD cartridge. I have two rifles so chambered remaining, a Marlin 1894 CL and a vintage Winchester Low Wall...And they're both on the chopping block, as my remaining brass has seen far better days, and replacement brass has become completely unobtainable. Even 32-20 WCF to make cases from is virtually impossible to find anymore as well.
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Post by Encore64 on Jun 29, 2023 19:16:07 GMT -5
Thank You...
I have a lifetime supply of both 25-20 and 32-20 Brass. But, I have an abundance of 25-20 Rifles too.
While the 25-20 remains my favorite cartridge of all times, I agree that 357 Magnum Brass will be easier to obtain.
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Post by tdbarton on Jun 29, 2023 20:03:02 GMT -5
Excellent work on the forend re-shape
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Post by squawberryman on Jun 30, 2023 17:13:45 GMT -5
What's the speed on that 75 grain torpedo?
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Post by Encore64 on Jun 30, 2023 17:28:48 GMT -5
With typical powders, about 2550 fps. I've pushed it to 2700 fps with Lil Gun.
I have no way to pressure test, but have enjoyed good brass life.
No flattened primers, loose pockets or sticky cases.
Keep in mind this custom chamber is snug and supports the brass well. Also, has a bit of freebore to allow long seating and reduce pressure a bit.
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