Looking for loads for my Ruger 38-40

[daveking]

I recently began loading for a Ruger Buckeye using the 38-40 cylinder. I've searched for a few days and have little to show other than the Taffin Test's, 38-40 Ruger Magnum and a few powder manufacturer's cowboy load suggestions.

I've opened up the cylinder throat to .400 and have shot a 180gr Hunter's Cast bullet (.401) with 10gr of Unique. The gun shoots this load very well, a nice precision group (relative to me) and once I adjusted the sights a little I was plenty accurate.

I'd really appreciate a head's up on some additional Ruger Only (heavy hunting type) loads and experience with this seemingly obscure cartridge.

I have reports that the new Hornady manual has loads also, I'll pick pone up next trip to a good gunshop.

TIA

[nobearsyet]

I don't know that you'll find Ruger only data for a 38-40, but pick up a LEE manual while you're at it, some of the oddball powders are real screamers

[Cucuy]

www.singleactions.com/files/3840WinchesterArticle.pdf

[daveking]

nobearsyet

Thanks, I'll look through one when I go to get the Hornady.

Cucuy

Thanks for the link, very interesting and informative article.

[Lee Martin]

One of my favorite all around 38-40 loads is 13.5 of 2400 under a 180 grain cast. It's mid-level, but very accurate.

-Lee
www.singleactions.com

[jefats]

I use this 170 grain (actually 175) SWC in my 38 WCF Ruger Flattop converted by Alan Harton. 6 grains Reddot gives me excellent accuracy and 939 f/s velociity.

[blackhawk44]

Find a copy of Ken Waters' Pet Loads, from Handloader magazine. Maybe you can get a reprint from Wolfe Publishing. He did a long article on the .38-40 Ruger and came up with a number of fine loads. Worth the trouble.