reloading question

[mtinner]

I would like to try loading some .44 magnums. I have some 2400 powder and Speer 240 gr lswc bullets. I can't seem to find the data that I need in any of my books. Could anyone help me with the starting and max. loads I need? Thanks

 

[T. O'Heir]

Use any data for a cast 240. Who made the bullet doesn't matter.
Data for a cast 250 will do too.
These are max loads. Reduce by 10%.
http://www.reloadammo.com/44loads.htm

 

[condor bravo]

Well from the Lyman 49th edition manual, a 240 gr jacketed HP is shown with 18.4 to 20.5 gr 2400. But a 240 gr jacketed HC (?) Is shown with 17.5 to 19.5 gr 2400. Couldn't come up quickly with the definition of HC--maybe hollow cavity or hollow cone. A 240 gr lead bullet is shown with 18.5 to 20.6 gr 2400.

 

[stubbicatt]

Good data, that. Thanks Condor Bravo. There are other good, even great, powders, but I too really like 2400, as it seems to do very well in moderate, as opposed to barn burner, loads. Which moderate loads I really like. Also it is a very cast bullet friendly powder, for some reason.

 

[243winxb]

Look at the older Alliant data here > http://castpics.net/dpl/

 

[mtinner]

Thanks for the info guys

 

[mikld]

Are the Speer bullets cast or swaged? Makes a big difference. Swaged bullets are really soft and need much lighter loads. Swaged bullets can have a tendency to lead at "normal" cast bullet velocities/pressures (skidding)...

That being the case, check with Speer to find some load data for their .44 bullet...

 

[Shimpy]

I've always used 240 gr Keith hard cast with 21.5 gr 2400 and CCI mag primers.