Setting up to reload for SB2 .44

[Lon371]

   I know this has been thrown around and around. But after searching, I am now really confused.

   I am getting the equipment together to start reloading. I have a Lee 3 hole turret press. Getting some brass built up. Have manuals ordered. I am buying a little at a time. I am starting with the .44 mag. The barrel is  an SB2 .44. Bought the complete rifle. Will be using it for plinking and maybe coyotes, until 2009 deer season. Shooting under 100 yards.

  After doing the search of the forums, it appears the .44 like heavier bullets? In the powder, I will be loading for .44, .223 and later .357 in rifles and .357 in a 10" contender. Do I go with a powder for rifles or is there a more universal powder that will work for both? I do not have a lot of funds, so I am trying to start with minimal stuff for now. Just would like a little direction please. Thanks

Lonny

If this needs to be moved, please do. Thanks

[dpe.ahoy]

If you want full power loads, H-110, W296 or LilGun are top choices for powder.  Match those with a good 240g bullet and you are good to go.  Out of the Handi it has enough recoil to let you know something just happened, but not enough to hurt you.  If you change bullet weight or speed very much, you will have to adjust your sights, something I prefer not to do so I stick with the full power loads for plinking or hunting.  I've used mostly Hornady XTP bullets with great success on deer.  If you want to use cast bullets, I would suggest 240g to 280g gas check and a wide, flat nose for best results.  Read the manuals and put together some loads then go play to find out what your gun prefers.  44 and 357 will work great with the same powders, 223 will need a different one.  Again, READ YOUR MANUALS, they will point you in the right direction.  Welcome aboard the reloading train.  DP

[cwlongshot]

I agree with DP. Your going to need two different powders.

 Most of us are hunting with our loads. That's the biggest reason your finding the heavier bullet loads for these calibers. Generally the heaver bullets for a hand gun caliber will give you the best results as it keeps the sectional dencity numbers high.

You can experiment as most of your stuff for now will be fun shooting. You did mention hunting later this year. So if it where me, I would start loading to that end and stay with at least the middle weight bullets for the 35 and 44 calibers.

As for the 223, its built around the 55gr bullet. Depending on your barrels twist rate for what bullet weight it will like best. I like H322 and a 52/53gr bullet for my accuracy loads, but there are many others that will work. Your manuals will show you what you will need.


Good luck,
 CW