357 Max load data

[Cowboybart]

I have worked up loads using 180 gr and 200 gr for the 357 Max.   Does anybody have load data for 225 gr or 250 gr bullets.   I use Win 680 powder or RL-7.   Please let me know if the data you provide is a maximum charge or a start point.

[DWTim]

Only thing I can find over 200 grains is for lead bullets, and nothing for the powders you listed. Only one 210 grain load is from a published source.

Still interested?

[Cowboybart]

Sure, it's a start.

[DWTim]

The published source. (Sorry only 210 grains; Adobe reader required.):
http://www.accuratepowder.com/data/PerCaliber2Guide/Handgun/Standarddata/35738Cal(9.2mm)/357%20Remington%20Maximum%20page%20105.pdf

Heresay and such (Warning: Probably max loads listed):
http://www.handloads.org/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=357%20Maximum&Weight=210&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source=
http://www.handloads.org/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=357%20Maximum&Weight=215&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source=

There are a couple 200+ grain lead loads here, but in article format:
http://www.lasc.us/Fryxell357Max.htm

This one's for the 360 Supermag, which is 0.2" shorter. I wouldn't use this data verbatim, but it might be a helpful hint for a big 250 grainer:
http://www.lasc.us/RangingShotDanWesson360Revolver.htm
(If all else fails, you can cut some of your brass to 360 SM length and do these loads. Might even help with the C.O.L.)


I'm really digging now...

[DWTim]

...that's all I have or can find.

I'd like to speculate on this for a moment. SAECO has a 250 grain RNFP-GC that could be used with rimmed cartridges. I estimate it is a little over an inch in length. My guess is that the bullets aren't popular because a bullet that long might not stabilize in all barrels.

I have both the original barrel and a new one installed, that is meant for the 360 SM. I'll have to take a look.

[unspellable]

The 357 SuperMag is LONGER than the 357 Maximum, it's the 360 Dan Wesson that's shorter.

The 357 SuperMag was the first of the three.

The 357 Maximum was a commercial knock off of the the 357 SuperMag, Ruger did not want to make the frame window long enough to accomodate the 357 SuperMag.

The 360 Dan Wesson is shorter than either, being intended for the standard length DW karge frame.

The Dan Wesson 357 SuperMag is actually chambered for the 357 SuperMag, not withstanding the fact that the shroud will be marked 357 Maximum.

Get some loading data for the 357 SuperMag.  It will do better than the 357 maximum, particularly with heavy bullets.

[Cowboybart]

Thanx for the info.  I have a Dan Wesson 357 Super Mag and a United Sporting Arms Seville in 357 Max.  The Dan has a 6", but I am saving for a 10" barrel/shroud.   The Seville has a 7.5"
I bought some 250 gr and 230 gr cast bullets for my 358 Norma, but would like to try some in the revolvers.

[unspellable]

You are the first person I've heard of with a copy of the Seville.  I'd be curious to know what the actual chamber and cylinder dimensions are.  Is it strictly a 357 maximum like the Ruger or is it long enough to take a 357 SuperMag?

My dimensions for both cartridges are at home.

[Cowboybart]

I have been using Max brass, as trying to find Super mag brass cheaply is futile.  I'll get cylinder measurements and post 'em.

[unspellable]

Maximum brass works OK for the SuerMag.  The Maximum case length is 1.605 while the SupoerMag case length is 1.,610, not much difference.  The Winchester Maximum  brass I have actually measures 1.610 out of the box.  A couple of reloads and 1.605 brass will stretch to 1.610.  The real difference is in the OAL where the SuperMag is 0.200 longer.  The SuperMag does not require the bullet to be seated so deeply, allowing more powder room in what is more or less the same case.  Particularly so with the heavier bullets.

[Cowboybart]

The Seville cylinder measures 2.022" long while the DW is 1.977".   The DW is .040" thicker/wider on the O.D.   Both have the rim ride "on" the cylinder, not recessed to ride "in" the cylinder.  I have a note in my dies that say I can go to an OAL of 2.175".  This is in the Seville, as I just got the DW and it is an old note to myself.
I didn't do a chamber cast to get chamber dimensions, but I have loaded a 204gr cast out to 2.175" (haven't shot it yet.)

[Cowboybart]

Took an antelope today with the Seville 357 Max.  I used a Nosler 158 JHP and WW680.  This was my first game animal with an open sighted handgun - probably last as I like scopes.