Back in this thread http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=413698 I asked about a 44 magnum load for last-ditch bear defense. The general consensus was a hard cast heavy bullet with a broad meplat.
OK, so I ordered a Lee 300 GR FP mold and cast some bullets.
I loaded some up in front of 18 grains of 2400, which is a full power load. I took them to the range today and discovered a big problem. The gun I intend to shoot them in is a Smith & Wesson 329 scandium super lightweight revolver. After the 5th test round there was a patch of torn skin on my palm, and I'm not sure but I think the cylinder actually spun during recoil during the second cylinder full. This gun is unmanageable at full power with the 300 grain bullet, but I have no problems with it when shooting full power 240 grain jacketed loads.
So here's the revised question: would I be better off sticking with the heavy bullets and reducing the velocity until the gun (and I) can handle them, or should I drop back to 240 grains and still load them to full magnum level?
TIA for any advice.
OK, so I ordered a Lee 300 GR FP mold and cast some bullets.
I loaded some up in front of 18 grains of 2400, which is a full power load. I took them to the range today and discovered a big problem. The gun I intend to shoot them in is a Smith & Wesson 329 scandium super lightweight revolver. After the 5th test round there was a patch of torn skin on my palm, and I'm not sure but I think the cylinder actually spun during recoil during the second cylinder full. This gun is unmanageable at full power with the 300 grain bullet, but I have no problems with it when shooting full power 240 grain jacketed loads.
So here's the revised question: would I be better off sticking with the heavy bullets and reducing the velocity until the gun (and I) can handle them, or should I drop back to 240 grains and still load them to full magnum level?
TIA for any advice.