Got a .38 loading question fer ya...

[kmystry]

I primarily reload with TrailBoss powder over 125 gr. LRNFP bullets (1.0 cc scoop  of TrailBoss with Lee dippers and a Lee Hand Press).  I'd like to use these same bullets for something a little more powerful in .38 like maybe replicating standard .38 factory rounds or greater for instance.  I don't want to buy plated or jacketed bullets because I get the above-mentioned bullets from a local supplier at a very good price.  I have ONLY used Trail Boss powder to reload with.  I was thinking of buying a bottle of Unique.  Here's the question:
Can I use 125 gr. RNFP's over Unique in a round with a little more "zip"?  I always see the need to use NON Cowboy action bullets in the load manuals I've seen.  Seems the cast bullets are only for CAS, but I love 'em.
Got any suggestions? 
By the way, I shoot an 1894C .357 rifle (and a S&W snub) and I do shoot alot of +P factory ammo out of it but I am just a little dissatisfied with my mild TrailBoss reloads....I love my bullets, but want "peppier" powder.  This is just for plinking, too, by the way.  After shooting +P's, the TrailBoss loads are pretty wimpy...I wanna soup it up!
Got a good recipe??

[jgalar]

Unique is a good choice. Data is readily available for Unique and cast bullets.

If you are feeling especially lazy just give Alliant a call:
http://www.alliantpowder.com/about/contact.htm

[apache235]

If your S&W snub is a J frame, +P will do it no favors (at least a steady diet of it).  I've broken K frame Smith's in under 10,000 rounds of .357.  Unique is a very versatile powder as is Bullseye for cast bullets.  Lots of loads to keep you happy with either powder.

[GGaskill]

I use lots of Unique but as you increase the power of your loads, you may run into leading problems using cast bullets.

[alacharger]

Hard cast bullets can be driven up to 1,000 fps without appreciable leading.  Over 1,000 fps, and you should plan on lots of bore and chamber scrubbing, or reduced accuracy.  If you want to go faster than 1,000 fps, I highly recommend some jacketed bullets.   

Check your loading manual and try a few loads that lead up to 1,000 fps.  Load a dozen or so in 1/10th grain or so increments up to the maximum load, mark them differently and take them out and try them.  Take a pad and paper and keep notes.  Look for leading, fouling, primer flattening, overly extreme recoil, or any other signs of trouble.  If you see any of these...back off.  Watch the accuracy, also.  Lots of times your most accurate load is not necessarily the hottest one. 

Unique is a great powder...but a little dirty.  I prefer Clays or (my favorite) Bullseye. 

[GGaskill]

After shooting +P's, the TrailBoss loads are pretty wimpy...I wanna soup it up!

Don't try to make a .357 Magnum from a .38 Special unless you want to retire it early.  If you want heavier loads, get an appropriate pistol or revolver for them.