I had hoped to hear that I could push them to 1000 fps. I also assumed that 50 yards or so was as far as i could count on accuracy. For me, that would make a good self defense load. It sure would help at the "fun shoot" over at the gun club, too. Unfortunately, the bullets this mold drops are a little small for my old, 4" 44 mag. They are just about perfect, as dropped, for my 6.5" 629. I even have a few 44 special cases that came with a holster I stole,er, uh traded for. ( Kramer shoulder rig, retail over $250.00, and Kramer inside the waistband, retail over $100.00, for $80.00). I still feel a little guilty about that one.
I am really starting to be an old fart, playing with stuff at less than strategic neuclear weapon levels, but i am more and more convinced that for deer hunting, groundhogs, hogs, and black bear, and self defense, a good hot 44 special, or mild magnum with a keith or LBT bullet is all i need.About 1200 feet per second. I am even looking at getting a Gold dot put in all my front sights. I only have Unique, 2400, and Bullseye for powder. Only wheel weights for alloy, and am using up the LAST of my gas checks. I will eventually find that 358429 mold for my .357. and will be ready to retire. My Labs won't even chase balls anymore, so I guess I am about done in. I just sit on the couch and watch John Wayne. Heck, I may get rid of all my rifles except a good .308.
I guess i will know i am about done for when i start carrying a single action 44 special or 45 long Colt, for defense, and a 35 remington or thutty thutty stoked with cast bullets for deer and varmints. The funny thing is, I kind of like being an "old fart."