The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Need help in choosing first reloading cartridge

Hammerhead · January 9, 2013, 02:42 AM

Well you can't go wrong with the .357. Very easy to load for. No minimum power levels needed to cycle the action, few if any feeding problems in a lever gun, most every load you try will be accurate, and power levels that approach the 30-30. I have several .357's that I load for including a carbine.

.30 carbine should load easily as well, but your power levels, powder choices and bullet choices will be narrower than with the .357.

.45 Colt is a great cartridge, I have a single shot carbine in that caliber that I like a lot. All the same qualities as the .357, but bullets can get pricey. To save money I practice with 200 grain .45 auto bullets.

January 9, 2013, 02:42 AM	#2
Hammerhead Senior Member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: Minnesota Posts: 2,432	Well you can't go wrong with the .357. Very easy to load for. No minimum power levels needed to cycle the action, few if any feeding problems in a lever gun, most every load you try will be accurate, and power levels that approach the 30-30. I have several .357's that I load for including a carbine. .30 carbine should load easily as well, but your power levels, powder choices and bullet choices will be narrower than with the .357. .45 Colt is a great cartridge, I have a single shot carbine in that caliber that I like a lot. All the same qualities as the .357, but bullets can get pricey. To save money I practice with 200 grain .45 auto bullets. Last edited by Hammerhead; January 9, 2013 at 03:06 AM.