new 38 spec loads
I worked up three new 38 loads this past weekend during the rain and the shoot great out of the S & W model 36 :) The 158 SWC with 4 grains of 231 was very accurate out to 25 yards, beyond that IT WAS THE SHOOTER, of course beyond 25 yards a two inch isn't the best choice either. :o :)

My normal plinking load with a swaged 158 gr lead swc is 3.8 231. With a good cast 158, I go up to 4.4 gr 231. I use a Hornady powder measure with brass powder bushings for most of my pistol loads. If you ever get a deal on HP-38, it is about the same as 231.

I do all my pistol reloading on a pair of Dillon Square Deals. One is set up for large primers the other is set up for small primers. when I get the new reloading / gun room finished I will set up my RCBS and the three Lee presses I will be really happy then. I just need to win the lottery to finish all the work around here :roll: :roll:

I have a Lee 1000 progresive that I don't trust. I do the majority of my reloading with an old Pacific press that I bought about 30 years ago. I am old school. I want to see the powder in the cases before I put the bullet in. I have a new Lyman and RCBS single stage presses that I have picked up over the years that are back ups that I have not taken out of the boxes. I prime with a Lee and a RCBS hand held priming tools. I still want to feel the primer as I seat it. I have been loading for 45 years and have not hurt myself yet.