357 Maximum question

[handirifle]

Well after years of finding a million reasons why not, I'm going to get a gun chamber for the Max.  Don't hate me, but it will be a TC Contender, only because I want it in a handgun and NEF hasn't seen fit to make competetion for the TC, at least in the handgun market.

I started this quest wanting to get one in 44 Mag but the 357Max barrel is available and priced right.

I hope the barrel is still there today.

My question, is what loads are you guys with the Max conversions, using?  What bullet, powder, and velocities are you using?

I know the Handi conversions are 22" barrels, but I think my pistol barrel is either 10 or 12", wonder how much it will affect velocity.

Where do you get brass?

[Datil]

 handirifle, I got my brass from Midway USA, Item no 755-699
 $16.79 per 100. Marv

[jbtazgrabber]

1730 fps out of a 10 in bbl.......1800 out of a 13 in. bbl...1800 out of a 18 in.bbl...1730 out of a 21 in.bbl.....all loads with 158 hornady xtp bullets with imr 4227 powder.....h110 powder well get you faster speeds...i just like 4227.........i had a large deer run off to never never land with a 158......so i would try the 180 if i was shooting bigger deer than 100# .....hope this helps....jb

[handirifle]

Datil
Thanks, duh, I guess look for the obvious first.  I found it on Midway with the number you gave.

jbtazgrabber

Thanks for the velocity info.  Looks like it peaks pretty soon in the short barrel with your loads.  I was planning on using the 180, thanks.

I've heard of a number of deer kills with the 158, but at lower velocities, I guess it over expands when pushed too high and doesn't penetrate well.  Based on your experience theat could be the case.

[myarmor]

Ok...now that thats settled,  what is it going to take for us to put you in a brand new Handi and a 357 barrel?  Your probably going to need a 357 barrel in a rifle as well. You know that. lol
J/k, hope all goes well with your plans.


-Aaron