Help with .38 sp Hand Loads

rideauwrangler

rideauwrangler

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I received a .38/.357 Lee hand loading kit for Christmas and want to start loading. I've never reloaded anything and don't know anything about it but the procedure seems relatively self explanatory in the kit.

My question is; what type of powder and primers should I look for to load .38 specials? I'd be using the loads for both target shooting as well as IDPA & PPC.

Also; is it necessary to clean my brass before re-loading?

Thanks.
 
For PPC, I use 2.8gr Bullseye under a 148gr LSWC. Brass coloured brass.

For IPSC/IDPA, I use 4.3gr Bullseye under a 158 LSWC. Plated brass.

Primers for both are Federal SP.

I always clean my brass before reloading.
 
Thanks RePete & sillymike for the info; you'll have to excuse my extreme lack on knowledge on this subject but;

I just called my local sporting goods store and I asked for Winchester or Federal SP primers; I was then asked if I wanted "small or large primers"? I'm assuming I would need small primers so that's what I asked for (is this right?). Can you guys please shed some light for me?

Thanks again.
 
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You should also pick up a reloading manual, I like the Lyman manual due to the large variety of bullets including cast bullets used in it's loads. It also covers all aspects of reloading and components like most others do as well.
 
rideauwrangler said:
Thanks RePete & sillymike for the info; you'll have to excuse my extreme lack on knowledge on this subject but;

I just called my local sporting goods store and I asked for Winchester or Federal SP primers; I was then asked if I wanted "small or large primers"? I'm assuming I would need small primers so that's what I asked for (is this right?). Can you guys please shed some light for me?

Thanks again.
Click to expand...

That is the SP in my reply.
 
When I shot IPSC with a revolver my favourite load was 4.4 grains W231 pushing a 158 grain LSWC. Excellent for knocking down steel reactive targets.
 
I also use 2.8 grains of Bullseye with the 148 gr lead wadcutter bullet
and as suggested get yourself a manual or two. Good luck
 
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