Lyman 358242 in 38 Spl

[Evil Dog]

Want to make up some light load 38's for my wife to use in her S&W Model 36.  My usual 38 load is a 158gr SWC and Unique (don't remember the exact charge right now).  It is very comfortable for me in a 6" K-38 but fear she will find it a bit stout in that little snubbie.  Thinking of the Lyman 383242, a 120gr round nose bullet, with probably W-231.  Do any of you have any experience with this bullet being used in 38 Spl?  Would be very interested in hearing.  Thanks, Bruce

[Orygun Mark]

Evil Dog,
    You can make some light recoiling loads using bullseye or green dot. I don't know about W-231 as I haven't used it for that case and bullet. I have a couple of 115 gr SWC's I use for my wife in her pistols.   Mark

[Cat Whisperer]

Bruce -  These are my (and my wife's) Model 36's.  (the one with Bugs Bunny engraved on the side plate is hers)

The old NRA 'HANDLOADING' book has an article on "Minimum Loads In Handguns"  by Wiliam Dresser.

He was using 148gr wadcutters with Bullseye - 1.25gr MINIMUM working load - of course be well aware of a bullet getting stuck in the barrel.

I've used Unique, 231, Bullseye and 2400.  They all work.  I haven't used the 120 gr RN but I have played with a Lyman 120 semi-wadcutter that shot well.  Too many decades ago for details.