Noob with a G38 & Lee Press

ADK_40GLKr · 09-29-2012, 17:28

My new pistol is already back to Glock due to ammo malfunction, but my LGS proprietor, who SEEMS to know what he's doing set me up with HS6 & generic 200 gr plated HP's, and trained me in his shop loading a couple dozen rounds.

Primers & bullets together cost me about $ .45 per round while WWB @ WallyWorld was more like $ .68 & squibbed on me during 1st magazine.

Many questions, but for starters:
1. @ 1.08" OAL, should these feed OK in G38?
2. What are good prices for primers and 200 gr FMJ, and where?

G21H30 · 09-30-2012, 14:14

I load my 200 gr. Montana Gold JFP 1.070-1.080 OAL.I also use Precision 200 RNF and Siera 200 FPJ Match.

http://powdervalleyinc.com/

http://www.montanagoldbullet.com/

http://www.precisionbullets.com/

ADK_40GLKr · 09-30-2012, 18:19

Thanks G21H30.

Haven't seen much here about HS6. Looks like it might be a bit weaker powder as more is required for equivalent loads.

Probably more forgiving for a neophyte like me.

RGV_Gringo · 09-30-2012, 20:35

I run 8.1 grains of HS-6 for my 185 grain JHPs with good results in all of my GAPs. Very soft shooting and accurate. Although not as efficient as some other powders, it does make it easier to prevent an overcharge.

ADK_40GLKr · 10-01-2012, 05:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by RGV_Gringo

it does make it easier to prevent an overcharge.

As I s'pected.

fasteddie565 · 10-04-2012, 10:03

You should contact Winchester about having them fix your pistol.

Another horror story for WWB.

I shoot Rainier Bullets, which are copper plated, available from Natchez shooting sports

Berry makes good bullets as well.

I think your costs seem a bit high. I can normally load a box of 50 45 GAP cartridges for around $10 a box (Assuming you have brass).

xrmattaz · 10-04-2012, 11:47

I use Berry's plated boolits, and the GAP brass I already have in abundance.

Still using WW231 powder for everything, on my 30 year old RCBS single stage press.

1000 rounds of fine quality GAP ammo for less than two hundred bucks.

parados · 10-28-2012, 21:23

+1 on Rainier bullets. Especially the 185gr HP bullets. I have a lot of brass too - actually looking to sell a couple thousand if anyone is interested.

Beanie-Bean · 10-29-2012, 08:43

I have not tried any Rainier bullets yet (I load/shoot Berry's DS in 9X19) for the .451 calibers (GAP, ACP) but may add some on the next big order I do.

I've had really good success with Hornady 185 gr. XTP, which I originally got free when I bought one of their presses and some dies. They are very good through all of my GAP and ACP pistols, and I'm always open to trying something different if others have some good feedback.

I've got a list with some Precision Delta and Montana Gold bullets on it, and I'll be putting in an order for some Rainier to see how they run through my guns.

Thank you for the feedback, guys!