357 Magnum M1

[bbuffett]

I just recently purchased a converted M1 Carbine with a nonrestricted barrel in 357 mag. I got 1 box of ammo with the deal that perform perfect 158gr lead. However, here is the problem: my old handloads are 158 gr lead with Unique ( allI ever used for the 357). They will not cycle the action!!!!. I loaded up to maxium 7.8g Unique under 158gr bullet to no avail ( about the same as 7.2g as far as cycling the action goes). I figure the problem is because the Unique is too fast a powder and I need a slower powder. The next fastest I have in stock is Win 571 ( similar to HS-7). Any thoughts before I try this?

I tried store bought American Eagle 357 traget ammo and there are signs of too high pressure with flattening primers and one punctured and one case cracked.....so staying away from there. Obviously they should not be too hot so any ideas of the problem there?

Thanks
bbuffett

 

[prosper]

the 30 carbine itself used H110/W296. This is also an appropriate powder for the 357.

I wouldn't recommend lead bullets in a gas operated semi, they foul up ports too easily

 

[bbuffett]

the 30 carbine itself used H110/W296. This is also an appropriate powder for the 357.

I wouldn't recommend lead bullets in a gas operated semi, they foul up ports too easily

Would the win 571 be too fast it is rated 61 fastest compared to N110 at 71 fastest in some charts. ( Compared to Unigue at 31 fastest powder.) in any case are you agreeing my assumption about powder burn rate has something to do with cycling..ie am I on the right track?

I totally forgot about the leading problem potential!!!! First semi auto rifle.
bbuffett

 

[prosper]

Well, try it and see, I suppose. Faster = less propellant required to hit peak pressure = less gas volume = less port pressure. So, it may or may not work although I'd guesstimate that it'll probably be OK