I can seem to find loads for a 125gr lead bullet for .38special or .357 magnum. The powders i have on hand are W231 and AA#5. I was planning on using starting loads from similar calibers like .38 super, but i dont know how safe that would be. I want a load for .38 that is extremely light recoiling because i'm introducing my fiance to shooting with it, and she has tender hands (and they sure do feel good on a sore back).

Cyberhick, Using the LazerCast manual, a decent light load with W231, 125 gr LazerCast bullets is 4.3 gr.w231. I have used this load using WW cases and primers and found it to be light recoiling. You can load down to 3.4 gr.,as shown in the Lyman 47th for 121 gr. lead bullets. I would not use AA 5 with light loads, light bullets. I agree that light loads are appropriate for this situation. Don't push her, please, let her shoot as much or as little as she wants. Set up targets that she can succeed at, and be nothing but encouraging. You really do want her to shoot with you, yes? I would be the servant to her needs, on her shooting experience. Many years ago I did more talking than listening, and lost my wife as a shooting partner. My 14 year old daughter is my shooting buddy now . I asked my wife what I did wrong with her, so I would not repeat my mistake. I didn't. My daughter is shooting competively now!!!! And , damn am I proud.

[This message has been edited by ChuckD (edited 04-17-2002).]

Don't forget push em slow and I've also found a faster burning powder with less muzzle flash seems not to scare newcomers as much..... Percieved recoil maybe? from seeing a flame out the end of the tube?

I load 125 lead bullets ahead of 4.5 grs of red dot for about 800 fps in a 38 My kids just love them out of their model 10's I have seen my daughter run 6 for 6 pop cans at 25 yards double action. Great rounds for just having fun. My daughter shot my 44 the other day for the first time full house loads said the recoil wasn't bad put 4 in one hole the other two about and inch away. Said she wants to shoot her bear this year with it. We well see about that.