Shooting the hottest load sold in 44 Magnum, Buffalo Bore's +P+ in 340 grain. This while hiking in the mountains of Idaho. I later chronographed the rounds, and found in my Ruger Redhawk 5.5 inch barrel, they averaged 1,300 fps, which converts to an energy of almost 1,300 foot-lbs; considering that even while reloading, my 5.5" barrel only gets to maybe 950 ft-lbs at most, that is incredible! I later dissected a bullet and found it to have approximately 21 grains of powder. I compared the powder to many of my experimental magnum powders; the characteristics seemed identical to Hodgdon's Lil'Gun. Even under a microscope, they seemed indistinguishable. However, I have loaded 240 grains to a max of only 18 grains of powder, so 21 grains would really be pushing the limits, especially for a 340 grain bullet! This is especially evident when you consider the rounds were stuck in the cylinder after firing! There is clearly printed a disclaimer warning not to use these rounds in certain guns, Smith & Wesson being one.
I am using a Kenai Chest Holster, which worked outstandingly during my adventure.
16 сен 2024
