Post by Big Joe on Jan 24, 2018 23:13:48 GMT -5
Ok, I am going to start this by sharing my way -- remember this is my redneck way of doing things. Some I made up, some I absconded from others and incorporated their ideas into my finished system. Its mostly all basic common sense and good reloading practices.
Both the 38spl and the 357 mag are done using the same basic steps. I use 357 Max cases to form the shotshell hulls for each. I make mine full cylinder length for each. Ok I do trim them back to fit the shortest cylinder I have in that caliber group. The first step before chopping down it to run the 357max brass in a 222 sizing die with its guts removed - it squeezes the bullet end down enough to fit in the cylinder. Next I use my little fancy chop saw to shorten the cases, then I use the trimmer to get it to final length. Then it's on to priming, I use standard pistol primers in both. I take my VLD reamer and sharpen a 357 case to cut out the foam over shot cards from egg cartons, I used to use different colored ones for different size pellets - now we use reclaimed shot so there is no need for that. After I get a bunch cut out I start the actual loading.
I use 5.0gr of Bullseye for the 38spl and 5.5gr Bullseye for the 357mag with a 36cal BP wonder wad over the powder - tamp down with a dowel. Fill the case with the shot - do not have any pellets sticking above the end of the case, its preferred to be just under so the over shot card fits. I use Elmers glue ot hold the cap on -- one drop and use your finder to pull it to the edge and seal between the case and the foam. let dry over night and you are ready to use.
You can use a Dremel to cut the cases or rig two pcs of wood in a vise and use hacksaw, just leave extra to trim off later. At 15ft there are deadly on snakes and the occasional rabbit that commits suicide.
They have a max range of around 15yds, they will kill farther out but the shot gets spread out pretty thin.
List of materials needed:
The 357 max cases, powder of your choice, primers, Over powder wad(the 36cal Wonder wads), shot - 7 1.2 is the largest I recommend but again that's your call, we are using reclaimed shot now and its is mix of mostly 8shot but it has other sizes in it, egg carton top to make the over shot cards and Elmer's glue or any glue that doesn't eat the foam up.
All the standard disclaimers are in use here -- use caution and all safety precautions in doing this. If you have a question ask, I or someone will try to answer it as best we can.
Now all who have attempted this or are doing it differently chime in and we may come up with a plan that may fit all. I see the biggest difference is the powder of choice.. Use what you feel is right for you.