Hello, This mite be a dumb question but before I go and buy some 38 S&W dies is it possible to use 38/357 dies. I know other than length they are very close. So I'm just asking is it possible or is it a very bad idea to even try. Thanks, your help on this matter is greatly appreciated. Ken
Can you use 38/357 dies to reload 38 S&W
- Thread starter Magnum3
- Start date
The .38 S&W case is .0075 larger in diameter than the .38 Special and .357 magnum, the nominal bullet size is .360 and not .357.
In one reloading manual they recommend to "NOT" reload this cartridge because so many weak break action designs were made.
"IF" you have a more modern .38-200 like Smith and Wesson made for the British or a Enfield or Webley made in WWII it might be a different story.
See if your .38/357 die can partially resize the case at minimum without making the case too wasp waisted. And if the expander die will even reach and expand the case to except bullets. The manuals I have use .357 diameter bullets and you might be better off using larger diameter lead bullets with light loads as a starter.
In one reloading manual they recommend to "NOT" reload this cartridge because so many weak break action designs were made.
"IF" you have a more modern .38-200 like Smith and Wesson made for the British or a Enfield or Webley made in WWII it might be a different story.
See if your .38/357 die can partially resize the case at minimum without making the case too wasp waisted. And if the expander die will even reach and expand the case to except bullets. The manuals I have use .357 diameter bullets and you might be better off using larger diameter lead bullets with light loads as a starter.
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I've used 38/357 dies to reload 38 S&W and they work but you will end up with wasp waisted rounds. I probably don't shoot the gun 100 rounds a year (a Webley MK IV) so I didn't bother buying 38 S&W dies but if you're going to shoot the gun a fair bit investing in the dies would not be a bad idea.
You can use your 38/357 dies as stated above but your brass is not going to last very long as you are over working it quite a bit. I have done it many times in the past but I would recomend getting the right dies for the job and then your brass will last a lot longer, and in the long run you are going to make better ammo as well.
Graydog
Graydog
Yes, for a bit of fun ammo.
I finally broke down and bought a 38 sizing die. I still use the 38 Spl seater and expander dies.
in a pinch, the 9mm brass is an alternative to 38 S&W brass. Just use 38 S&W loading data!!!!! I use a pencil or sceewdriver to pop the 9mm empties out of the cylinder.
I finally broke down and bought a 38 sizing die. I still use the 38 Spl seater and expander dies.
in a pinch, the 9mm brass is an alternative to 38 S&W brass. Just use 38 S&W loading data!!!!! I use a pencil or sceewdriver to pop the 9mm empties out of the cylinder.
Don't be a party poop. I am trying to be helpful.
If a guy has 38 S&W brass, i am sure he would use it. If he does not have any brass, and wants to play with his Webley, Enfield or Smith, then he can use the ubiquitous 9mm brass littering the range.
Yes, it is a bit short, but the hammer on my Webley has never failed to fire the 9mm case. the gun goes bang every time and I have more fun than just wishing I had some S&W brass.
