I don't think you can beat H110 or W296 if you want max performance with the 158s.
I don't think I would even bother with the 125s for your stated purposes.
Pachmayrs are kinda ugly, but the gripper will hel tame some of the recoil. In the 357 Mag I think the report is as big of an issue as the recoil, with that penetrating noise one perceives significantly more recoil than there really is!
Posts: 4267 | Location: TN USA | Registered: 17 March 2002
While I have never used H-110 in the .357 Magnum, I have loaded my share of W-296. I have always had extremely good results out of W-296 when maximum velocity was needed with the .357 Magnum. While I have not used them, I too would think the 180gr. Nosler Partition would make a great Deer Bullet in the .357 Magnum.
I'll second H-110. Just be sure to use a solid crimp to ensure consistent ignition, which in turn will lead to better accuracy potential. As to bullets, don't drop below 158 grains if deer are included on the menu. I'd actually prefer the 180 grain HG Partition if I were in your shoes. It opens even with the minimal resistance of a coyote's ribcage but will exit on virtually any broadside presentation on a deer. It's one of the best compromise bullets out there for the .357 Magnum.
Posts: 9443 | Location: Shiner TX USA | Registered: 19 March 2002
I too like H110 pushing Hornady 158 grain XTP bullets. Another powder showing merit is Lil'Gun and the load data says lower pressures for the same velocity. I think the 125 grain bullet are too light for deer as they will be a bit on the explosive side but ought to totally ruin a coyotes day.
Thanks for the suggestions - I'm leaning towards H110 and 158 grain SP's. Am I correct in thinking that all of these slower burning powders require a magnum primer - H110, 2400, WW296?
I've had outstanding accuracy and velocity with H110. I've also been very happy with some Accurate Arms #9 that I got a good deal on, very good choices in the 357.
regards, graycg
Posts: 692 | Location: Fairfax County Virginia | Registered: 07 February 2003
I used new brass - Winchester - in order to minimize the case to case length variation. Based on my experience, and what I've read, slow burning powders, like H-110, Win 296, Blue Dot, and 2400, require a pretty heavy crimp in order to ensure good ignition and a thorough burn. When I load with 231 or Unique, I use a much lighter crimp.