Opinions on reloading the "Death ray"...

by Byron, Thursday, October 27, 2016, 19:10 (2887 days ago)

It's time to reload another batch of three five seven ammo and I am seeking opinions from the board on their personal preferences in powder and technique.

I believe the "Death Ray" is at its best when loaded to full power and have always loaded a 158gr jacketed bullet over a case full of 296/110 at a spec measured velocity of 1500 fps out of a 6.5" barrel. I start at around 14 grains and slowing increase until the measured velocity at 15' hits 1500 fps. This load has always been extremely accurate and consistant for me and has never shown any pressure signs.

It is a harsh and noisy load but that is what the three five seven magnum is all about and has always preformed brilliantly out of my Blackhawks, big frame Smiths and carbines.

I am sure there are other powders that also preform well. Please note that I am loading to the original 1500 fps velocity and using 158 gr jacketed bullets.

Opinions on reloading full power .357, please?

Also, I have a Dillon electric case trimmer that works perfect on rifle cases and would like opinions on trimming the pistol cases. My brass is a mix and most have been reloaded 4 or 5 times. After reloading pistol ammunition for 50 years I have never once trimmed a pistol case to length. I shoot them till they split and then throw them away.

The rifle shooters I shoot with say the trimming your brass is not important until it is...

Is this going to be worthwhile to spend the time to trim this lot of brass to consistent length?
It will be a batch of around 3000.

Thanks in advance for your opinions based on personal experience.

Cheers,

Byron