44 mag load

wrangler yj · August 28, 2009, 04:25 PM

I am starting to get my list for what I will need to reload my 44 mag with. I use Hornady bullets most of the time. Heres the question, the Hornady books says that they used the Redhawk with the 7.5 inch barrel to get their results. I would like to load a couple hot loads for mine. I have the 10.5 inch barrel. It is the Blackhawk. Will there be much of a difference with velocity or other concerns that I should know about before I load these 6 hot and heavy. Not going to load them all like that, just a few for curiosity reasons.

PCJim · August 28, 2009, 04:49 PM

Follow reloading protocol and begin at starting loads. Work up to, but do not exceed published maximum powder charges, watching for pressure signs.

Your 10.5" barrel will produce higher pressures than the 7.5" test barrel for any given load.

**Unclenick** · August 28, 2009, 05:50 PM

Well, no. Pressure peaks when the bullet is only an inch or two down the barrel, so the peak pressure will be the same, but the bullet will have the lower post-peak pressure behind it sustained longer in the longer barrel. That means it will keep providing some additional acceleration for three more inches, so you will get more velocity. How much more depends on the powder. If you use the old Winchester fixed load of 24 grains of Winchester 296 under a 240 grain jacketed bullet, you can expect about 100-130 fps of advantage.

wrangler yj · August 28, 2009, 07:58 PM

Thanks for the info.

rn22723 · August 28, 2009, 08:02 PM

Do you load work up, but you must be mindful if you choose H110 or W296 that you can only reduce 3 percent vs the normal 10 percent.

Edward429451 · August 28, 2009, 11:32 PM

Quote:

I am starting to get my list for what I will need to reload my 44 mag with

Hornady bullets are good. Since you're making a list though...

Some lead bullets. A mould or five?

44 mag versatility can really only be realized with a selection of fine cast lead bullets. And some Alliant 2400 powder to go with them. That 10.5" barrel will love 2400.

August 28, 2009, 04:25 PM	#1
wrangler yj Member Join Date: July 21, 2009 Location: Southeastern Ohio Posts: 67	44 mag load I am starting to get my list for what I will need to reload my 44 mag with. I use Hornady bullets most of the time. Heres the question, the Hornady books says that they used the Redhawk with the 7.5 inch barrel to get their results. I would like to load a couple hot loads for mine. I have the 10.5 inch barrel. It is the Blackhawk. Will there be much of a difference with velocity or other concerns that I should know about before I load these 6 hot and heavy. Not going to load them all like that, just a few for curiosity reasons.

August 28, 2009, 05:50 PM	#3
Unclenick Staff Join Date: March 4, 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 21,132	Well, no. Pressure peaks when the bullet is only an inch or two down the barrel, so the peak pressure will be the same, but the bullet will have the lower post-peak pressure behind it sustained longer in the longer barrel. That means it will keep providing some additional acceleration for three more inches, so you will get more velocity. How much more depends on the powder. If you use the old Winchester fixed load of 24 grains of Winchester 296 under a 240 grain jacketed bullet, you can expect about 100-130 fps of advantage. __________________ Gunsite Orange Hat Family Member CMP Certified GSM Master Instructor NRA Certified Rifle Instructor NRA Benefactor Member and Golden Eagle

August 28, 2009, 04:49 PM	#2
PCJim Senior Member Join Date: July 11, 2008 Location: FL Posts: 570	Follow reloading protocol and begin at starting loads. Work up to, but do not exceed published maximum powder charges, watching for pressure signs. Your 10.5" barrel will produce higher pressures than the 7.5" test barrel for any given load.

August 28, 2009, 07:58 PM	#4
wrangler yj Member Join Date: July 21, 2009 Location: Southeastern Ohio Posts: 67	Thanks for the info.

August 28, 2009, 08:02 PM	#5
rn22723 Junior member Join Date: December 10, 2001 Location: Burbs of Minneapolis Posts: 676	Do you load work up, but you must be mindful if you choose H110 or W296 that you can only reduce 3 percent vs the normal 10 percent.