Need advise on 180gr hard cast load for M83 .357

[Wiking]

After a pleasant conversation with Bob Baker, I've decided to go down the path of customizing the perfect load for my M83 using a 180gr hard cast gas checked bullet.
I considered posting in the "Cast bullet" forum, but thought It'd be better to try it out here first, since your are the FA experts.

I do have some experience in casting bullets, but only for 9mm and .38 special.

Does anyone have experience with this particular size bullet in a M83 .357? I figure since it is a fairly large bullet, seating it to get a COL of 1.685" would be the way to go! But does cast bullets have cannelures corresponding to Hornady's XTP for instance? Any suggestions on powders? I can't decide whether to go with the "normal" .358 in size or to get my bore slugged? And finally I'd like some thoughts on molds!

I would be nice to get some feedback before spending $200+ on a mold, not knowing if it's a good one or not. Mold are pretty expensive around here.

Thanks guys.

[EdK]

Being in the same situation as yourself I just purchased a .358 cal 180gr GC LBT sale mould for only $93. With a 0.35" nose you will achieve your OAL objective and get a quality mould at a great price (if Veral still has one left - he had two when I ordered).

He is a GBO sponsor. Visit his forum 

[MarkH]

I would also recommend just getting a box of them from Cast Performance, kill a few things with it, and then decide on the mold.  I understand the purpose of the 180 gr hard cast, but personally when I use a 357, it is with an expanding JHP.  But my main use for it is for varmints and predators.

[Wiking]

I only need it for target shooting and contests, do'nt hunt with it. Anyone else have any advise etc?

[Steve P]

I shoot the RCBS 180 Silhouette bullet, Saeco 200 grain swc, and LBT 200 WFN.  Powder selections are H4227 (if you can find any) and AA#9.  I do a slight bell in the case and then seat my bullets.  I use a Redding profile crimp die after the bullet has been seated.  My loads will shoot close to moa if I do my part. 

Bullets are cast from wheel weights and dropped from the mold into bucket of water.  I use LBT blue lube or Lyman Orange Magic (depending on which of my sizer machines is easily available.)

Winchester small rifle primers, 15-16 grains of the above powders, one of the bullets selected above, and RP or Starline brass.  Mild enough for normal plinking and silhouette competition.  Hot enough to safely and sanely take an animal within normal revolver ranges.

Good luck with your choice.

Steve

[Hank08]

I use both the Saeco 200 gr. GC and the Saeco 180 gr. (#354) GC in my FA Whitetail Express along with #9 and R-P cases and Rem. 71/2 primers.  Both very accurate.
H08

[Wiking]

Okay, thanks for the replies. I think I'll go with a LBT mold, like the idea of getting a custom mold.

[mugs]

Wiking
Steve P's reccomendations are all good. I've had good luck with IMR 4227. On the 200 grn. bullet I use the RCBS instead of the Saceo. And Rem. 7 1/2 primers. The Redding Profile Crimp die is a must.
Mugs
IHMSA 5940L

[Wiking]

Isn't there something about the characteristics of powders like H4227 and 2400, are wearing up the forcing cones just a little faster as with other powders? Something about ball powder or leaf powder or whatever? I don't recall....

I see many use H110, and have been reading about it. Thing is I can't get my hands on 2400 and H4227, am down to the last 1lbs can of 2400, it don't get imported no more. We don't have crap over here 

[Chris Potts]

It would seem that VIHTAVUORI N110 might be a good powder also.  It might be more available where you are.

Chris

[Wiking]

Yes N110 available here. But I know many shooters here who prefer H110, H4227 and 2400.

[Steve P]

I miscounted my odd-lot ammo last weekend and ended up with 43 rounds at a 40 round match and 4 of the rounds wouldn't go into my cylinder.  Oops!  39 rounds for 40 round match. 

A buddy was there and he shoots H110 in his gun with 180 grain bullets.  He tossed me one just to make sure I didn't hit 39 targets and have legitimate reason for not making that perfect 40x40 again.  Murphy entered the picture.  I spun my cylinder so I wouldn't know where the odd round was and proceeded to fire.........at target #2.  Ended up losing two targets due to that.  With three other misses, I ended up with a 35X40.

I knew when Joe's round went off as recoil was a little different than my load of AA#9 with 200gr bullet, but it still hit same point of aim on 100 meter pigs.  Joe is also doing very well with his load.  So H110 or WW296 should work for you (they are the same powder).

Steve

[Ken ONeill]

Steve:
Stuff happens...

[Wiking]

I didn't know it was the same powder. That saves from buying both kinds and experimenting with them both  . I'll go with H110 then.