What should I load with my pound of Clays?

K

Kframe

New member
Powder is becoming more available, and I've picked up some favorites I've been missing (W231, HS-6, RD) but I also want to use up a pound of Clays that I've had sitting around for 15 years. I also have a pound of Universal Clays, but I have some loads I like in that, so my question is really about Clays.

In handgun I currently load 9x19, .38/.357 and .45 ACP.
I don't have dies right now but I'd like to load for my .32-20 someday, and I have some brass on hand for that. Same with my .44 Magnum.

In the three I load for right now I use 115gr jacketed; 125gr jacketed, 148gr lead, 158gr lead and 158gr Hi-Tek coated; and 200gr lead and 230gr FMJ.

Any suggestions?
 
For .38 Special, try 2.2 gr Clays under a 148 lead HBWC or DEWC. Very mild and accurate.

For .45 ACP, try 3.6 gr under a 200 gr lead SWC. Mild and accurate. I also tried 3.8 gr and 4.0 gr and found no increase in accuracy.
 
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As a cowboy action shooter I've loaded a good many .38 Special cartridges with Clays, mostly under 105 and 125 grain lead bullets. I switched to another powder when Clays became difficult to find. I was generally pleased with the performance except it seemed to be a little erratic in very cold weather.

I am still using Clays in .45 ACP behind a 200 grain lead bullet.

I saw Clays for sale in a local store last week. First time in a couple of years.
 
IMO Clays is best suited for light bullets in .45 auto. I use it with 200 gr SWCs. Never noticed any changes in cold (MN) weather.
 
I also want to use up a pound of Clays that I've had sitting around for 15 years
Click to expand...

If it's 15 years old then it's no longer safe to use. Please send it to me and I will dispose of it properly by loading it around 3.7 grains under a 200 swc for my 1911. Do not attempt to do this yourself however, I am a trained professional and you should not try this at home! :p

Eric
 
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