Loading 357 mag casing using 38 spec plated bullet

[ingun999]

Just loading for target practice and using a lighter load, I was wondering if others have done this. Don’t crimp the casing, make it snug only. Any advice is appreciated and thanks.

 

[Robert Richardson]

If it has a cannelure, give it a light crimp. Even with a light load, inertia could cause it to walk forward.

 

[Sniper 79]

I used unique and roll crimped like a normal mag round. Worked well and was like firing a cap gun.

 

[singlesix]

Same normal crimp. Never had any issues.

 

[wingrider1800]

I used unique and roll crimped like a normal mag round. Worked well and was like firing a cap gun.

This is the same for me and never had any problems

 

[DadSmith]

I use Lee factory crimp dies for years now. They work great. I have a 38 special Ruger LCRx and it definitely requires a good crimp.

 

[GIJEW]

When I was reloading pracrtice/plinking ammo for my .357, using plated, non-cannellured bullets to .38 velocity, I used a light roll crimp. Never had a problem

 

[ingun999]

Thanks to all for the feedback. I use bullets with no cannelure on my Dillon 550B and will set the die for a light crimp. I posted this because some bullet manufacturers were warning about plating separation, mainly due to a hot load or too tight a crimp.

 

[Robert Richardson]

Most played bullets that have problems when crimping have a very thin plate. Zero, Precision, or the RMR bullets don't seem to have that problem.

 

[Whip_McCord]

Never did this with 357 brass, but I have a few light loads using 44 mag brass. The loads are very accurate. My favorite uses 10 grains of AA#5 with a 240gr cast bullet (1050 fps). Unique is also good for this, but a slightly lower amount. Great for field pistol silhouette (that is shot at 25 to 100 yards). I never bothered getting 44 special brass, just all mag brass. Still need to crimp, as other mentioned.

I never liked plated bullets, but instead use cast for light loads. Always got better accuracy with cast. Don't need hard-cast for light loads, though. Save hard-cast bullets for magnum loads. I loaded a lot of cast 44 mag loads (fairly hot) for big-bore silhouette shooting (out to 200 meters).

I think you should have similar results with 357 mag brass. Work up loads for accuracy and I think you'll fine some nice loads. Good luck.

 

[t-squared]

If you have issues with roll crimping them, I use one of these on all of my light 38 Special loads.....https://www.precisionreloading.com/cart.php#!l=RE&i=85282

I've also used one for light 44 Mag loads also.

As you're probably well aware, you do have to be careful and make a small test batch to check for bullet pull....load 6 in the gun, fire 5, and measure the remaining cartridge.