Clean powder for .38 SPL or .357 mag

phronq

phronq

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Once I finish off my supply of Titegroup, I want to switch to something that's cleaner for .38 special loads that I'm doing in .357 cases.. Any recommendations?

Also looking for a nice clean powder for .357 magnum loads as well.

I'm using 158gn SWC for both.
 
Clays for 38 spl. since you are using 357 cases, you can easily use a very fast powder. The longer case reduces peak pressures, which also leads to less complete combustion of slower powders.

You probably know this, but if you are using lead, then nothing will be clean because of burning lube. If you want clean, use plated bullets.
 
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Thanks SandRoad... actually, I didn't realize the lube burnoff would contributed to the mess... I'll switch my bullets out next time too and get some copper plated.

I was using Titegroup with copper TMJ 9mm some time ago, and it was pretty messy with that too.
 
You'll find Titegroup with plated/jacketed bullets is much cleaner. Just a word of caution though. If you choose to use plated bullets, be very careful how much crimp you apply as it can actually cut into the plating, resulting in teeny bits of copper spraying around and back into your face upon firing. I have first hand experience with that one. It sounded like a timing problem at first but was found to be a result of a heavy crimp on the revolver bullets in numerous revolvers.
Good luck.
dB
 
phronq said:
Thanks SandRoad... actually, I didn't realize the lube burnoff would contributed to the mess... I'll switch my bullets out next time too and get some copper plated.

I was using Titegroup with copper TMJ 9mm some time ago, and it was pretty messy with that too.
Click to expand...

One of the "tricks" with powders is that you need to load them up to reasonable working pressures. Using too slow a powder will certainly reduce pressure but combustion is not always as complete at those lower pressures.

Faster burning powders will generate a higher pressure at the same velocity as a slower powder, but the faster powder will burn much cleaner. You also use less of the faster powder, also reducing the smoke/residue.

Note that Win 231 is a slower powder than Tightgroup, and is great as long as you use it in heavier loads.
 
All powder is dirty.

All powder is dirty. Really. Some might be dirtier than others and most reloaders use what works for them.
I reload alot of 38special wadd cutter target loads and I am currently usinb the Alliant Group's very nice bulk powder called ClayDot. Available in 8 pound units only, it is very economical, light powder throws, and very efficient.
 
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Cartridges that have been reloaded with VITAVORA (spelling?) have the cleanest cases I have ever seen. The brass looks like it is new unfired. But the powder is more expensive than others that have been suggested.The cartridges that I saw were high pressure fast .38 super and shiny bright inside the case.
 
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