|
|
Post by needsmostuff on Feb 24, 2024 18:05:37 GMT -5
You may have rediscovered the 357 ATOMIC.
|
|
|
|
Post by Encore64 on Feb 24, 2024 18:14:16 GMT -5
Truly, nothing is new here except the BFR in 357 Magnum.
The 357 Magnum itself was brought about by guys hotrodding the 38 Special. A gunwriter always gets the credit, but who knows who did it first. Actually, who cares?
John Taffin's excellent experiments and article shed light on what the FA83 could do.
These days the BFR is 1/3 the price of a FA83. I wanted to do this as a Blue Collar Substitute for those unable or unwilling to fork out the $$ for a FA83.
It actually went better than I hoped. Definitely could have gone with hotter loads and got more velocity with H110, 296, #9, etc. But, I choose to stick with 2400. Maybe someone else will run the torch on those loads.
Definitely wish a member would do the same with a BFR 44 Magnum...
|
|
|
|
Post by seminolewind on Feb 24, 2024 18:48:28 GMT -5
These days the BFR is 1/3 the price of a FA83. I wanted to do this as a Blue Collar Substitute for those unable or unwilling to fork out the $$ for a FA83. It actually went better than I hoped. Definitely could have gone with hotter loads and got more velocity with H110, 296, #9, etc. But, I choose to stick with 2400. Maybe someone else will run the torch on those loads. I also see this load development in a BFR as a substitute for the 357 Maximum revolver, which may never go into production again. As far as running the torch on other 357 Magnum loads, I’ve used Accurate #9 in Starline brass to get 1600+ fps with 158 gr XTP FLat Points and Swift Aframes in a 9” FA 97. I’ve gotten four loads on brass so far and still holding primers tight. Deadly on deer. In a 7 1/2” Ruger 357 Maximum, I’m trimming Starline Maximum brass to 1.50” and getting 1550+ fps with 180 gr XTPs and 300 MP powder. I read comments from Mr. Bradshaw and Ronnie Wells that 1.50” cases may hold an accuracy edge over 1.60” cases, and that has proven to be true in my gun. I really like reading about your experiences with the 357 caliber. |
|
|
|
Post by Encore64 on Feb 24, 2024 18:56:08 GMT -5
I really appreciate that. I never could stomach arm chair theorist saying what was and wasn't possible. There's no teacher like a loading bench, shooting bench, chronograph and target.
I think a Factory BFR in 357 Magnum would be nearly perfect as is. The front sight was too tall on mine. Got a new one from Fermin and may get a second one for different loads.
I'll start fine tuning for accuracy soon. As always, I appreciate the support on this forum...
|
|
|
|
Post by Encore64 on Feb 24, 2024 20:23:55 GMT -5
With the powder measure and dies set for the 195s, I loaded and shot those until it was too dark to see.
My best groups were about 1" when I did my part.
I started with 20 Rds of Starline Brass for load development. I've lost track of how many times they've been loaded. I did switch primers to have a tighter fit, but all 20 Cases are still usable.
That is something I still have a hard time understanding...
|
|
|
|
Post by bigbore5 on Feb 24, 2024 21:59:32 GMT -5
With the powder measure and dies set for the 195s, I loaded and shot those until it was too dark to see. My best groups were about 1" when I did my part. I started with 20 Rds of Starline Brass for load development. I've lost track of how many times they've been loaded. I did switch primers to have a tighter fit, but all 20 Cases are still usable. That is something I still have a hard time understanding... I never pushed the Starline brass. Maybe I should break out some and the #9. I've still got the data and plenty of the bullets cast up. |
|
|
|
Post by Encore64 on Feb 25, 2024 6:21:09 GMT -5
Well, I never even loaded to the point cases were sticky. I was outright impressed before I ever got there.
If you try it, please post your results...
|
|
|
|
Post by blackmamba on Nov 2, 2024 10:29:13 GMT -5
Reading this whole thread just now really makes me want a BFR in .41 magnum. Why in the world they don't offer it as a regular item I will never understand. 5 or 6 shot wouldn't matter to me, I just love the platform and the cartridge.
|
|
|
|
Post by bigbore5 on Nov 2, 2024 10:34:37 GMT -5
Reading this whole thread just now really makes me want a BFR in .41 magnum. Why in the world they don't offer it as a regular item I will never understand. 5 or 6 shot wouldn't matter to me, I just love the platform and the cartridge. Currently custom shop and 5-shot only. But if you buy it without all the frills it's still cheaper than a FA gun |
|
|
|
Post by ss30378 on Nov 5, 2024 7:53:45 GMT -5
Reading this whole thread just now really makes me want a BFR in .41 magnum. Why in the world they don't offer it as a regular item I will never understand. 5 or 6 shot wouldn't matter to me, I just love the platform and the cartridge. Currently custom shop and 5-shot only. But if you buy it without all the frills it's still cheaper than a FA gun I inquired about a 6-shot 41 and they said no problem just put it in the notes when ordering and they can do a 6. |
|
