Mag is now a Max

[plowmaster54]

Just this evening reamed my 357 Handi out to max. I took my time,used lots of oil and cleaned
the reamer every 2 or 3 turns. It went smoothly,just like everyone has said it would. Had plenty of light
but was wishing I had better eyes or a stronger magnifying glass. The hardest part was worrying
that I was going to cut too much.

Now I need to load up some test rounds and see if she will shoot. Right now the only bullets I have are some hard cast 158 gr.SWC.
I plan to eventually locate some 180-200 gr. cast bullets for hunting loads. I have unique and 2400 powder on hand and am thinking of trying H-110
as it's locally available. Any recommendations as to bullet/powder combinations will be appreciated.

This was my first stab at (amateur) gunsmithing, and thanks for letting me share it here.

David

[Jimbo47]

Welcome to the club and you will love the Maxi.

Looking at your signature you do a little ranching so this will be a close companion for you.

It's probably one of the most versatile of the Handi's and the most accurate, and the maxi seems to like the heavier bullets, so the 180 on up, is usually the choice of many, although some have had good results with some of the lighter ones, and they will likely chime in.

In the Maxi, H/IMR 4227 are good powders, and the ones I've used. Others seem to like AA1680 better. You can also try 2400, 296/H110 and AA#9. All work well.

Let us know how she shoots, and post a range report!

[cbourbeau32]

Let us know how she shoots.

[Datil]

 You will be a happy little camper now with the 357 Maxie.
 I have been told AA1680 powder works good, I finally got some but haven't got to shoot it,

 Good luck Marv.

[plowmaster54]

Thanks for the  recommendations guys! It will be a several days before I get a chance
to work up some loads and try 'em out. I'll post the results (if I can figure out how to
post pictures ----computerly challenged) as soon as I can.

I am sure I'll have questions as I get along on this project. I started reloading in 1972 and loaded for 3-4 years
then quit until last year. After I found this sight, I got interested in the Handi's and that led to buying the 357.
That led to reloading again,and then to the maxi. I am now looking for a 30-30 and a 44 ---then,who knows.
(This is not an addiction, I can quit anytime I want-----I can quit anytime I want 

This site has been a great source of information and inspiration. It got me to rekindle my interest in shooting,hunting
and reloading. I feel like I almost know a lot of the regulars personally and would be proud to call any of them friend.

Thanks again guys
David

[cwlongshot]

For hunting loads my NO1 loading is a Hornady 180 SSP bullet with a near max load of AA1680 powder sparked with a CCI SR match primer. Shoots right @ one inch @ 100 yards.



Mine shoots regular mags just as nicely. 38's still have "coke can" accuracy with my lite DEWC target loads.

My Maxi has accounted for quite a few whitetails with this combination. Chrono'd vel is over 2100fps.




Good luck with yours!!

CW