.357 Magnum (Handloading Notes)

      This reloading article shows the information from a page of my handloading logbook.   It includes all the information I need for my .357 Magnum.   I save ALL of my notes when testing different loads - even the loads that don't perform well.   This keeps me from trying the bad ones again at a later date.   However, I keep a separate page like this for my "best" handloads for each firearm.   They get recorded in this exact format below.   If you save your reloading data like this - it becomes much more meaningful information when the shooting begins.

Case : Primer : Powder : Bullet : OAL :

Remington       (Velocity = 1,180 fps) Federal 14.0 gr, 2400 158 Gr. Hornady XTP (Hollow Point) Heavy roll crimp in center of cantilure

Notes:
      This is the best hunting and self-defense handload for my 6" Colt Python.   It delivers good bullet penetration and expansion without excessive muzzle flash.   This handload could have been made a little bit hotter, but this particular bullet produced the best accuracy at 1,180 fps in my handgun.   It will shoot 5 shot groups at 25 yards that consistently measure well under 2" when fired from a sandbag rest.