357 Mag in Freedom Arms model 2008

[LiscioG]

Gents,
Appreciate your input on this.
I have a FA model 83 (revolver) in 357 mag. It's a little light on the turkeys. The more stalwart of you have advised loads in excess of the reloading manual recommendations, feeling that the FA is stout enough to support it. New to reloading and uncomfortable with that.

Do you think the 357 mag in a single shot like the model 2008 will have enough velocity/power increase to work, or would you recommend an alternate caliber like 357 max or 41 mag. I like the velocity charastics of the 357 bullet.
Does the 357 max offer more loading variety than the 41 mag?
Thanks gents.

[braud357]

What bullet are you using in your 357 ?? I have campaigned the 357 Mag. in revolvers for over 35 years, and had good results using a DW Model 15, a FA 97, and a custom Ruger Blackhawk. I used mainly the Sierra 170 FMJ, and I can say that it was very accurate and that it was probably 98% effective on rams. When I had my FA I used 200 gr rifle bullets, seated to crimp over the ogive of the bullet. I would think that a 170 or 180 gr. bullet should do the job. My 2 cents worth !

[LiscioG]

I would think that a 170 or 180 gr. bullet should do the job.

Thanks for your info. Sorry I wasn't more clear.
I agree with you on the bullet. Which powder and how much do you use? Previous load info I received indicated some folks were loading past recommended H110 powder maximums in the loading manuals (Hornady. Sierra, Speer, etc). As a new reloader that makes me a bit nervous.

[braud357]

The only 357 mag that I still shoot on a regular basis is my Ruger Blackhawk with a custom 10" Shilen barrel. I use the Sierra 170 FMJ in WW cases, 15.5 Gr. of 296, with a CCI 550 Primer. It handles this load with ease, and is VERY accurate. Your FA can handle such a load with ease. For comparision, I used this load in my FA 353 - Rem. 200 Spire Point, seated deep and crimped over the ogive, WW case, 15.0 gr. 296, CCI-550 primer

[LiscioG]

Thank you for the valuable input; I appreciate your help.