Speer manual #13 lists .357 Magnum loads as "silhouette loads" at 45,000 CUP. The manual recommends these loads for "heavy frame revolvers and single shot pistols".

Can anyone tell me from experience if the Ruger GP100 (adjustable sights, 6" barrel) is up to these loads?

Thanks, MM

The GP-100 should be able to handle these loads. I have the Speer number 11 manual and they worked up silhouette loads in a Smith & Wesson 28 and a Dan Wesson 15. The GP-100 is as strong as, maybe stronger than, these revolvers.

I am sure it would handle them put to you really want to stress you guns that much.

Montana,

I have had a GP-100 6" stainless for many years. I have put several thousand rounds through it, to include many, many maximum loads. I have loaded everything from 110gr. to 180gr. cast and jacketed bullets. It is as tight and accurate as the day I bought it. I would have no qualms at all about feeding it a steady diet of heavy loads. I can recommend a couple of loads, but please work up to these as each gun is different.

110gr. JHP - 20 grains of 2400
125gr. JHP - 17.5 Grains of 2400
158gr. cast SWC - 15 grains of 2400

Good Luck!

I guess my question would be - is it worth the risk? I personally witnessed a friend destroy a Ruger REDHAWK .357 (very rare) by shooting "Contender" level loads in the revolver. IIRC, the Redhawk is significantly sturdier than the GP-100, so you roll the dice and pay the price (possibly). Personally, while I consider the GP-100 hell for strong, I'd steer clear of load designed specifically for single shot pistols...

Regards,

Kevin

The Speer published loads in question are intended for "large frame revolvers or single shot pistols" per the Speer manual.

I have a GP100 4" SS. I also have two .44 Mag revolvers. I do not push my .357.

I have a friend who wants to use his 6" GP100 for whitetail hunting in NCs Croatan Natl Forest. Ranges are typically within 25 yards.

My friend is looking for a heavy 180-200 gr cast load for this purpose and asked if the silhouette loads were safe in his revolver. I told him that I did not really know but I am seeking EXPERIENCE from this board.

I personally do not push my cartridges beyond published data.

Thanks for the feedback from all of you.

MM