Reloading 357 mag with 158 gr XTP and Clays

[Steve90-two]

I’m trying to find some reasonable data on loading 158 gr. HDY XTP with Hodgdon’s Clays for a 357 magnum.

I’m shooting a revolver and tend on pursuing CAS but at the moment I just like going BANG.

I had been loading Unique however it was too dirty for me and now use Clays in my other pistols as well. I’d rather not add another powder to my inventory for this play thing.

There is Hodgdon’s data for a 158 LSWC for Clays but no data for an HDY XTP ??? I’m stymied. Maybe pressure is an issue though I’m not looking for high velocities just a reasonable place to start without having something blow up in my face.

 

[easyrider604]

Clays is really a very fast powder designed for shotshells and light pistols target loads in .38 spl and 45acp. It is not designed for magnum loads.

Pls note that pressure rises significantly with a very small increase in powder charge of .1 grain.

From the Hodgdon Reload Data website for 38 special:

bullet weight & type: 158 GR. HDY XTP
powder: Hodgdon Clays
bullet diameter: .357"
COAL: 1.455"
powder weight in grains: 3.0
velocity in fps and pressure: 633 at 13,400 CUP
powder weight in grains: 3.1
velocity in fps and pressure: 721 at 16,600 CUP

If you will shoot your loads in a 357 magnum revolver, you may possibly get away with loading this .38 load in .357 brass, perhaps to a max of 3.5 grains Clays. With no published data for a very fast powder, it is prudent to err on the low side. Or better yet, buy a more suitable magnum powder.

I have seen published loads in Handloads.com that went as high as 4.5 grains Clays with 158 grain LSWC bullets but that is from an unknown contributor so may not be a safe load.

At any rate, XTP bullets are too expensive to use for "bang" purposes, IMO. If you really want to, match the XTPs with 14- 15 grains 2400 powder for a serious BANG.

 

[Steve90-two]

Many thanks