[Brian Pfleuger]

Originally Posted by Mike/TX

A side note to the above comment, years ago I was working up a hunting load using the Sierra 108gr JHC for my Ruger Redhawk in 44 magnum. At the time I had the latest Lyman manual and after looking over loads from powder and bullet manufactures, I settled on the H-110 load listed in the Lyman. I worked it right up to the top end listed load, and it shot wonderfully, putting many rounds into 1-2" groups at 100yds. It was after being at the range one day talking with another shooter who asked what in tarnation I had loaded, that I got curious and went back and read the full details of the load data. Turned out the load was worked up in a 4" barrel. Since I was shooting a 7.5" barrel I was surely pushing the limits. While it presented no obvious physical damage to my revolver, or the brass I was loading, it could have been catastrophic had I used some other handgun of less strength.

Barrel length has no bearing on the safety of a load. None whatsoever.