.38spl Pyrodex loads

[Fyodor]

Hi, forum!

As some might already know, here in Germany we need a licence to own powder and reload. It allows for limited quantities of certain types of powder only (smokeless, black powder and/or black powder substitutes). The licence is valid for five years, and when you didn't buy any powder of a type, they'll revoke this part of the licence.

So when I got my "full licence" (all powders, no 5-year limit, all usages except bangers), I imediately bought one can of every powder type. Now I got 2 pounds of Pyrodex here, and it needs to go somewhere.

So I thought about using it as a CAS load in my .38spl rifle and revolvers, but I can't find any loading data for it. I use 158gr lead bullets.

Anyone has some loading data for this combination?

[Zippidydoodah]

Fyodor, they have discussing 38 special loads with Pyrodex on the Rossi-rifleman forum in the Pyrodex section of reloading . It is a long thread, worth reading, but about #75, navy-doc stated it is not important the exact weight of BP powder but to insure all the space is filled. I.e. fill the case with powder to a height + 1/16" - depth of bullet will be seated. That will insure compression of powder and not have a void.
Hope I stated it right, anyway Rossi-rifleman forum is also one of ranch dog forums.you will enjoy.
Rudy

[Fyodor]

Do you have a link to the thread? I can't find it... maybe I'm just blind?

[Ranch Dog]

Here you go:
http://www.rossi-rifleman.com/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=2716

[RBHarter]

Your lube needs will be different with BP and subs . Olive oil and beeswax is the simplest to make and use. You can use it also for wad lube or pills. I've shot lots of C& B w/straight olive oil lube wads under the ball . The difference is 12 shots and shooting all day without cleaning.

[Fyodor]

Thanks, I'm going to read through that thread.

[ljnowel]

Fyodor, glad to see our brothers in Germany are loading away, and on Lee equipment also. Just curious, what calibers are you loading?

[Fyodor]

I only load .38spl and .45 auto at this time. In the future I might add .38-40 to my list, but that'll take some time.

[ljnowel]

Ooooh, .38-40 is a very cool cartridge. Glad to hear you are enjoying the shooting sports. I see you shoot CAS do you compete in anything else? I personally love Bullseye pistol. It's a tough discipline but very rewarding.

[Fyodor]

No, since I found the cowboys I don't shoot anything else for competition.