Meek and Mild,
I suggest that when approaching 'handloaded' ammo for accurate target work that you take into consideration the many variables which 'you-will' encounter. You have some factual and mature information in this thread even now............
*Keep an openmind*
If you are a shooter-by that I mean serious effort(s) on your part-then you need to turn your hat around backwards and dive into the 'well' of information which will ultimately yield the results you are seeking.
First-have you slugged your barrel?
Have you checked the diameters of each cylinder?
Do you know 'if' your revolver is in time or not?
Choose the components which have a reputation-with seasoned handgunners who load their own ammo............
I know R-P or Winchester has excellent 44 special brass---for instance.
The powder you mentioned is slow burning for 44 special ammo.
As a matter of fact it is in the burn rate class with Blue-Dot or even 2400.
Your request -concerning 'A' powder to be ".....slow burning and light load"
That -'IN GENERAL' should be a relatively fast burning powder with a light charge(of it).
Before I offer my suggestion, which is based on my experience with 44 cal, allow me to state that I always take each and every gun down after a shooting session-----for revolvers, the side plate comes off and all internal parts are cleaned---------(or the grip frame and innards with my Rugers)
Therefore I have not even a 'minute' interest if a particular powder is clean or dirty when shot--------------
I am a utilitarian-firearms wise----------
Use R-P or Winchester cases
Use large pistol standard primers(any brand)
Use Unique powder---7.0 grns to start
You can choose the bullet much better after you have slugged the barrel. OR take my suggestion------------
SPEER: offers a .430 Lead bullet--240grn(which should yield good accuracy 'IF' that diameter suits your particular bore
Wideners at
www.wideners.com sells them
They also offer a 'generic' hard cast 240 grn which is .430
Midway at
www.midwayusa.com offers a .430 240 grn
D&J brand
There is a company GeorgiaPrecision----at ----www.georgiaprecision.com who offers a excellent 44 slug-----Ranger is the brand (actually Bull-X material and specs) and it is a hard cast .429 -240 grns SWC for around $42@1000
www.dillionprecision.com will put you in contact with a favorite of mine The most excellent Meister brand.
A .429 diameter hard cast 240 grn SWC .
You did not mention if you would entertain the idea of a jacketed or plated(in this case) projectile.
Midway sells a Electroplated (copper) lead .429 diameter slug in two weights and two shapes.
Those are good for low to medium velocities.
I am going to stick my neck out a little bit and say that your fine Ruger is not out of time and that the cylinders are within specs.
When you have a top shelf gun -such as yours- you will not find many of them that have left Bill's shop being out of specs.
I will go further and say to try the Meister bullet.
And by the way--you can obtain a Meister Hard cast 44 mag Truncated cone 300 grn-.429 diameter bullet which I will--from experience-- stack up with anybodies 300 gr hunting bullet-------but for now I stand ready to assist you until you get it right.
I have lots of patience and have picked up on some useful information 'so-far' in this 'handgunners' life.
Don Mallard