Contender .357 Mag loading for Practical Hunter?

[Jayaretea]

As the old eyes continue to fail I'm thinking of using an old 10" barrel Contender in .357 Mag and red dot sight for Practical Hunter Long Course. I have a few hundred Hornady 180 gr. JTC-SIL left over from my revolver days as well as an existing supply of IMR-4227 and H110. (In the past I've used 680 to power this gun but would like to give the long course a try without purchasing more powder.) I'm looking for load recommendation from the community using, if possible, the components that I have on hand. Thanks in advance for any help.

[Richard Pickering]

I have used the 4227 powders (12gr) primarily with the RCBS 200 FN bullet. .357 chambers may vary from virtually no throat----like mine---to a very long throat. You should check yours. I've also found Accurate 1680 (Now Western Powders) to be usable. The 180 to 200gr bullets will serve best on rams, and only need a MV of around 1150fps. If you can find a good 160 or 170gr bullet you might try those for C, P, T. rp

[Jayaretea]

I have used the 4227 powders (12gr) primarily with the RCBS 200 FN bullet. .357 chambers may vary from virtually no throat----like mine---to a very long throat. You should check yours. I've also found Accurate 1680 (Now Western Powders) to be usable. The 180 to 200gr bullets will serve best on rams, and only need a MV of around 1150fps. If you can find a good 160 or 170gr bullet you might try those for C, P, T. rp

Thank you Richard