38 Special Loads

R

Ronnie3

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Hello, just wondering if I should be loading 38 specials different for a semi auto than a revolver, someone once mentioned the crimping is different between the two, just wondering what others are doing ?
I plan on reloading for the best accuracy.
info appreciated, as allways.
Ron
 
If you are loading .38 special for an automatic ( usually a special Colt 1911 or a S&W Model 52). Crimping would not be too important as both these firearms fire .38 wadcutters completely inside the case and the case would headspace on the rim. Which type or make of .38 special auto do you have? Not too many of them around and I am sure a few pictures might be appreciated by those who have never seen one.
 
I have a S&W Model 52-2 semi auto on its way, should be here in a few days, just wanted to start on some loads. Any suggestions for accurate bullets ? I used to use 158 gr. semi waddcutters in my S&W revolver, and they were ok, but I'm about to put in an order for some more so if theres any others that would give me more accuracy in the semi auto, I would appreciate that info.
Thanks, Ron



BEARMAN said:
If you are loading .38 special for an automatic ( usually a special Colt 1911 or a S&W Model 52). Crimping would not be too important as both these firearms fire .38 wadcutters completely inside the case and the case would headspace on the rim. Which type or make of .38 special auto do you have? Not too many of them around and I am sure a few pictures might be appreciated by those who have never seen one.
Click to expand...
 
Ronnie3 said:
I have a S&W Model 52-2 semi auto on its way, should be here in a few days, just wanted to start on some loads. Any suggestions for accurate bullets ? I used to use 158 gr. semi waddcutters in my S&W revolver, and they were ok, but I'm about to put in an order for some more so if theres any others that would give me more accuracy in the semi auto, I would appreciate that info.
Thanks, Ron
Click to expand...

Speer #11 has a chart specifically for the 52.

The model 52 is designed for 148gr HBWC.

That being said, a friend used 38 S&W brass and loaded 158gr SWC.
 
Thats interesting, didn't know you could use 38 S&W brass in a gun designed for 38 specials. Do you know, was he loading for accurcy ( target shooting ) or hunting or ? any cycling problems ? hummm,, I do happen to have a set of 38 S&W.
Thanks, Ron


RePete said:
Speer #11 has a chart specifically for the 52.

The model 52 is designed for 148gr HBWC.

That being said, a friend used 38 S&W brass and loaded 158gr SWC.
Click to expand...
 
Ronnie3 said:
Thats interesting, didn't know you could use 38 S&W brass in a gun designed for 38 specials. Do you know, was he loading for accurcy ( target shooting ) or hunting or ? any cycling problems ? hummm,, I do happen to have a set of 38 S&W.
Thanks, Ron
Click to expand...

Target shooting, an zero problems.

You size the brass in 38Sp dies.
 
I use a roll crimp on my 38 special loads for my S&W model 52.

a friend used 38 S&W brass and loaded 158gr SWC.
Click to expand...
Kind of odd. You would have a large section of the barrel (chamber area actually) that would be significantly wider than the bullet diameter since that is where the case should be taking up that space. While it would work I think you would not come close to the accuracy you would get with regular full wadcutter loads.
 
For the most accuracy out of a Mdl. 52, use a 148 gr, double ended wadcutter (not hollow base) seated flush with the mouth, over 2.7 grains of Bullseye, and standard pistol primer. With proper maintenance, it'll always shoot better than you can hold. This is the load that's been used in serious competition for half a century and has not been improved upon. I've pumped over a half million through 52's. ~Arctic~
 
I have a Model 52 as well and use a taper crimp die set up to just get rid of the slight case mouth flaring used to seat the bullet, there is no real requirement for any crimping on 38 Spl WC loads IMHO.
 
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