Reloading for Cowboy Action Advice Needed

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shootinironlen

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I purchased a Lee Bench single stage reloading press. I have the carbide 4-die set in 38 special.

I am loading for two Ruger New Vaquero in 357/38 and a Rossi Model 92 in the same caliber.

Firstly, I am a greenhorn at reloading. I have taken a class on reloading, and I feel comfortable enough to get started.

I would like to know firstly what powder to purchase (brand) and secondly which primer folks are favored to.

Lastly, could anyone recommend a solid reseller that delivers? I live so far out of town I have to drive into town to go hunting. Online really works for me.
 
My wife uses the same combination of guns that you shoot. I load all of our CAS ammo with Unique and 158 grain RNFP bullets. As for primers, I had a problem with misfires in Winchester primers so I went to Remington, problem sorted. I use .38 Spl brass in the Vaqueros and .357 brass in the Rossi as it is very overall length (OAL) sensitive. OAL for .38 spl is 1.450" and .357 is 1.590". 158 grain RNFP feeds consistently in all 10 of my CAS firearms. Also a Lee Taper Crimp die is very worth while, I prefer to seat and crimp in 2 separate operations.
 
What Garand said sounds good, but Federal primers are the softest, and if you have put lighter springs in your guns, you might want to consider that. If they go bang every single time with what you are using then don't bother changing. Enjoy. We'll see you at the matches.
 
I shoot 130 gr. 38 cal bullets over 3.2 grains of 700x with a Federal MAGNUM primer. Never a misfire or flash-over with the magnum primers and very low recoil. This round works well in my Uberti '73 with no problems.
 
Not a cowboy guy but I shoot thousands of rounds per year of 38/357/9mm/45acp and all I ever use is hogdon titegroup. Federal or cci primers usually but sometimes you can't be picky depends on whats in stock. If you are going to reload more than a few thousand a year you will likely want to step up to a progressive press.
 
Keep in mind that the minimum power factor for CAS is 60, the only time I have ever seen ammo chronoed was at Winter Range the US Nationals. Haven't shot the Canadian National yet so I don't know if they chrono.
 
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