357 mag 180grn load for contender and or encore

[boarshead]

  I've been trying to listen and learn for awhile, here on Greybeard and would like to known what is
possible with 357 mag 180grn in the contender and the encore.   
                                                                           
 
                                                                          Thanks, Bud

[Ken ONeill]

Lots. Your best answers will be found in loading manuals.

[shot1]

I shoot the max load of H-110 that Hodgdon list. 13.5 grs with the 180 Hornady XTP from my 10" Contender and it is a tack driver. I have killed deer pretty well out to 107 yards with it.

[irold]

I , too , use the 180 grain XTP  for the .357 MAX in my Encore.  Works real well.  Your question refers to the mag though.  Personally , I've never got a 180 grain to fly very well from any of my .357 mags.  All of my testing has been with revolvers , and the max barrel....perhaps from a mag barreled T/C , it would be different.  I use 158 gr XTPs or 125 gr cast (Oregon Trail )  over 2400 in my revolvers, get good results.  As Mr.O'neill stated , consult the loading manuals , go from there.  good luck
 
regards , irold
 
Oh ...and welcome to GBO.  Vast amount of information here , lots of good folks.

[boarshead]

          I've been at work the last couple days, just got a chance to look at the
responces.  I'm looking in  the  safe and I see a 357 marlin 94 and a ss 357  ruger
redhawk 5 1/2'', looks like  at least a couple different performance levels
to look at.  I'm trying to decide on mag., max., or 358 win. in a encore and 10'' or
12'' for pistol and 16.5'' for a 358  win  combo.
 
                                                                    Thanks, Bud