Howard B

I’ve had good success with Bullseye. Haven’t used BE86. I like 3.5gr in a 38 Spl case with Berry’s 158 RN. Federal small pistol primers because my 4” M66 has wimpy springs. For me, that bullet finds its way into the chambers quickest of those i have tried.

Wow. Or as we say in this part of the country - Boy Howdy. Y’all keep going. And it seemed like a simple question(s). Thanks for all the responses. So far my take away is longer bearing surface in my trusty G34 will have more theoretical effect than practical. At barely above minor PF, little to no difference.

I live NE of Atlanta. There are 5 clubs that have IDPA matches within 2.5 hours driving time from me. Rule wise they cover the spectrum from following some rules to all rules. I am an SOI past MD, and always try and suggest the sometimes clubs up their game. I have, in the past when confronted with gross rule ignoring, thrown my hat on the ground, stomped on it, then left during match to protest. But, guess what, the match continues. So now I try (but don’t always succeed) asking myself which is better - shooting or pushing the lawn mower. Since I only have one hobby, shootin usually wins out. If only we could eliminate local rule variations..... but, that’s right up there with the tooth fairy.

Not that there are any to be found at present, but has anyone had experience with Berry’s (or other brand) hollow base plated bullets? Is accuracy and velocity comparable to flat base? Do they expand to fit bore like black powder Minie bullets? Benefits/ liabilities for minor PF loads? A lot of questions, but an old dog trying to learn something new. Thanks Howard

While not as fancy as the plastic knobs, some epoxy glue and a small wing nut works well. You just have to find a way to set the powder measure so the slide bar is up while the glue hardens overnight. Howard

I, for one, am really glad they have decided to make this change. But since you can't please everyone..... I wish they hadn't announced it yet. The whiners will say " well, since it is going to be legal, why can't we do it now?" And, there could still be a peculiar twist to the rule when implemented. Wouldn't be the first time.....

As did I as a young policeman. I built a briefcase size wood storage box with opening lid (long before the plastic commercial ones), had a plug in lamp,and a metal storage clip board velcroed to the top with blank forms and such. Very high tech for 1978. Made an ok armrest as well. But I think this qualifies as thread drift.

I just bought a electronic scale about two weeks ago, it seems to have some issues from the get go but they have told me to return it. I have also had case vibrators repaired without questions. All of my experiences with repairs have been exceptionally positive.

My wife went to Wally World today to look for a new cover for the grill. She saw a flex light being marketed as a grill light. Thinking it would help with my occasional cooking chores and also recalling my complaining about needing supplemental light for my 550 presses, she thought it may work. I dont know about the grilling part and won't till she goes back to get another one, but it is (only my opinion of course) the proverbial cat's meow for a press. It has a clamp or magnetic base that attaches with a solid thunk to a strong mount. The goose neck is about 12 inches long, it has three led bulbs and uses AAA batts. Not bright enough to be the only light, but it bends over to easily see into cases. I think it will even work for 38 Spl cases. I apologize for not being able to attach a photo, but that is way beyond my skill level. So, the particulars. Mainstays brand Flexible Grill Light (or lampara flexible para la parrilla - if you prefer). Costs 15 bucks in the section with grill stuff. Of course, I cant tell you which Wal Mart store till I go back to get two more............. Sadly, it is made in China but that is the way of things these days.

Thanks to all. I hadn't considered the PF issue. In my M66 Smith, it has been a struggle to make 125pf with a substantial roll crimp. I'll unpack the chrono and see what happen. I think I was considering the extended brass life more than velocity. Oh well, another tool for the "it seemed like a good idea at the time."

I agree with the seating and crimping as seperate operations group. I have just loaded my first batch of 38 spls with a taper crimp die and I think I like it better than the traditional roll crimp. Sunday will tell.......

Has anyone tried taper crimping 38 Spl? Not being the sharpest knife in the drawer, it came to me that as I am using plated bullets with no crimp groove, it might cause less damage/deformation to the bullet using a taper crimp as opposed to traditional roll crimp. While the plated cost more than cast, for me the fact that cleanup is easier more than off sets cost. Thanks in advance, Howard

Thanks to all who replied. I shall be content with the knowledge the brass was free.