Very light bullets in a .35 Whelen

[Bishopus]

So I just got a wack of .357 bullets for loading .38Spcl/.357Mag, and I'm dying to load some up for the .35 Whelen for plinking and melon exploding.

I have Lyman data for 158grn jacketed, but only a few powders are given. I'd also love to know if anyone's tried the classic 125grn JHP pistol bullet in the Whelen, and what kind of velocities you got.

Any loads for Unique, H110, Varget, IMR 3031, IMR 4831, RL 15, or RL 19 are worth extra points...

 

[Super Scout]

I too have the same question. I'm having a 358 Win build in a 700 action with 19" barrel. I plan on using 2 bullets - the nosler 225 gr and I wanted to use 357 SWC (lead). This is what I found out. The 357 jacketed XTP and hydra shoks are to short and when fired have to make a large leep to the lands of the barrel. 158 gr leaded pistol bullets are damn near pure lead and were developed for velocities of about 900 fps in short barrels. They get shredded at higher velocities and deformed bases due to heat. I'm told from an experienced shooter who I trust, to go with a lead 200 gr. gas checked bullet and SR 4759. I also had a Marlin lever action in .357 mag. Couldnt hit a damn thing with lead bullets. When I went to jackets - KAPOW!! I'm still going try the short bullets but I think the bet one should expect is maybe 50 to 75 yard accuarcy.

 

[ben hunchak]

Recently someone posted a cast bullet list from M.T. Chambers' Supply(my Bro) however it mysteriously disappeared.....He lists a 200 gr. Fp Gc for the .358 dia. Is Super Scout's Marlin Microgroved??? With a little load work most Marlins(Ballard cut rifling) take to cast bullets. Testing did show problems with dry moly coated cast bullets w/micro groove rifling!!!

 

[Super Scout]

Yes it is micro grooved. I only tried it a few times - got depressed and went to the Hornady HP XTP. Outstanding on bush varmints. I'll have to research this further.