Does anyone here have experience with the JDJ cartridges based on the 444 marlin case?

What do you want to know? I own 2 of SSK's barrels, one it the 309 JDJ, 444 marlin necked down to 30 cal and the other the mighty 375 JDJ. Both are 14" barrels, SSK khromed and mag na ported. I plan to use my 309 on a black bear this spring here in Alaska.

Most excellent barrels. I have two for my Contender, 45-70 reworked by JD, started out as a Fox Ridge bbl. The second is a reworked TC Hunter barrel 30-30 reworked to 309 JDJ. Both are MOA shooters when I do my part. The 309 JDJ is an excellent 300 yard shooter and recoil is very mild. I only have one barrel for the Encore and it is a totally SSK barrel in 50 Alaskan. Of course, that barrel is the most accurate of the three and the cleanest shooting.
JD also stands behind his products, even when they are someone elses product. There was a problem with the 309 JDJ converson and JD took it back to fix, and said he would either fix the problem, or if it could not be fixed, he would replace it free with one of his barrels. Luckily, for him, he fixed the problem with the TC barrel but anyone who will stand behind his work like that has my admiration. What a shooter that barrel is too.
Of the barrels I have, only the 309 is based on the 444 case. Forming is easily done, no expensive case forming dies are needed, and reloading is not a problem either. The 309 cases seem to last forever also. I am still using my first lot of formed cases and they have been reloaded, including fire forming, five times now and I am shooting them as fast as they will safely go out of my Contender.

[This message has been edited by Big Bore (edited 03-15-2002).]

Waldog, I have a .358 JDJ 14" Barrel that I've had for over ten years. This is a 444 Marlin necked down to .358 and improved using full power loads. MOA with most loads tried. I've taken over ten deer and numerous wooodchucks with this cartridge. JD is a wealth of knowledge and stands by his products. Opininated - you bet - and for good reason. You won't be disappointed with one of his barrels...RW

I had several reasons for my post: First, to get a pulse on something I didn't know a thing about.... the JDJ cartirdge line. Second, to get the creative wheels turning in my head.

I've been considering a 24" bigbore rifle barrel for my contender. I'm thinking about a 338JDJ, 358JDJ, or 375JDJ.

What do you guy's think?

I'm thinking it would make for a compact, light weight, bigger critter gitter. Just dreaming I guess...

Waldog,

I've had a 309 jdj and currently have the 338 JDJ#2. I see that you are in Colorado. I'm in Lakewood. BTW, with the name like Waldog do you shoot one and or BR?

If you need info let me know.

Mike

Hi Big Bore,
Could you email me at goforit40@msn.com
I want to ask you some question about your SSK 50 Alaskan.

Thanks

Waldog, I don't own a Contender Carbine, but I do own three short barrel JDJs - .309, .375 and .411. My thought would be to stick with a 20" barrel and make it a fast handling carbine. I think a 24" barrel would be kind of muzzle heavy, and the additional velocity would not be that great.

I own three of JD's creations...the 309, 338#2, and the big boy, the 375. All will group better than I can with about any bullet I put thru them. Anything from SSK (JD's company) with be top drawer or he will make it right..no question. These Contenders are probably the most fun and satisfying weapons I have ever fired. If you take the plunge, be forewarned...they are very addicting. Best of luck. GarBy.

i have a 257 jdj barrel and a 50 alaskan barrel both completely built from jdj. ive barrely shot the 257 because i let my dad use to cause i wanted him to try it at shilloute. needless to say he hasnt tried it yet and i miss it.he also complains it kick wores than his 7 br. boo hoo
jason

I have a 358JDJ and it is one of the best shooting gun I have used. I have had this gun for about 10 years