Author Topic: Question for ricciardelli (Read 379 times)

stimpylu32 · « **on:** August 26, 2005, 01:09:39 PM »

Steve

Can a 38 s&w be loaded with 38 spl dies -I realise that the case mouth is slightly larger in the s&w but if i use .358 cast bullets and size the brass to this will this be safe .

I trust your judgement when it comes to loading

ricciardelli · « **Reply #1 on:** August 26, 2005, 06:43:00 PM »

My answer is "No".

Now, you will get replies telling you that you can do it. Hell, you can ride an elephant to the local K-Mart, also.

The two cases are totally different.

.38 S&W:
Rim dimeter - .440"
Base diameter - .3856"
Mouth diameter - .3855"
Most common bullet diameter (lead) - .361"

.38 Special
Rim diameter - .440"
Base diameter - .379"
Mouth diameter - .379"
Most common bullet diameter (lead) - .359"

stimpylu32 · « **Reply #2 on:** August 27, 2005, 02:08:11 AM »

Thanks Steve --- Looks like i'm in the marker for a set of 38 S&W dies

CJ · « **Reply #3 on:** August 28, 2005, 06:46:57 AM »

Couldnt agree more.
I did it in my younger dumber days, with cut-down 38spec brass no less. Results were not very good at all. Gave up on it and traded the gun for you guessed it a 38spec. Get proper dies.