Has anyone had any experience with the 357 Max and 180 gr Hornady Single shot pistol bullets? I have a 14" TC factory bbl. Thanks.

So far I have found the Best results in my MAX with IMR4227 and Alliant 2400 using the 180 grain bullets

Fireball

http://www.serveroptions.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=35;t=000307#000000

Here's a post on 180 cast and Surplus 680.

I would say that you should get enough velocity in the 14" to have reliable expansion with the Hornady SSSP's in the Max.

The two loads I have had the best luck with are as follows.

Target Load
Bullet - RCBS 210gr. RNFP Cast (.358 Dia)
Bullet Comp. - 5:1 (Wheelweights/Linotype)
Powder - AA1680
Charge - 21.0gr.
Primer - Winchester SR

Hunting Load
Bullet - Hornady 180gr. SSP
Powder - AA1680
Charge - 24.0gr.
Primer - Winchester SR

I've had very good luck with the 180 grain Hornady .35 Remington (0.358) sssp bullet. It's listed in the Hornady book for .357 Max. Most accurate for me, and good for deer.

I use a 125 grain hollowpoint as a tool to seat the bullets- took a little work with a dremel tool, and Voila! Wicked long pointy bullets. Your friends will say "ooooo!"

Other thing is, seat those 180 grain XTPs as far out as you can. Same with cast. I found accuracy improves as you increase COL. Obviously, measure your COL Max before reloading.

Oh, try H110, Lil Gun and H4227. I guess I like H110 best, because I like the fireball! I load to the book maximums with rem 7 1/2 primers. My 10" groups best when shot hot.

Pete