.44 Special Loads

[camoguy89]

I just got into reloading and turned out my first 50 hand loads of .44 magnum. 240gr SWC with 6.5 grains of Unique (the book said 6.7gr of powder). This load was so much fun to shoot compared to full powered factory rounds I had shot before. I'd like to load .44 specials and shoot them out of the 7 1/2" Redhawk, but the .44 special loads in my book are done out of a Charter Arms with a 3" barrel. I don't want to risk getting bullets stuck in the barrel but, I really like the lighter .44 loads is it safe to try these light loads in a longer barrel than what was tested.
Why do jacketed bullets use more powder than lead bullets of the same weight.

[Prairie Wolf]

Jacketed bullets have more friction, I believe. They also will stand up to more velocity without falling apart. Lead bullets are usually kept under about 1200 fps.

If it is a regular .44 special load, you should be able to shoot it in your .44 magnum with no problems. You should never have bullets get stuck in the barrel unless is it some sort of misfire. Your velocity will likely be higher.

[Remnard]

Just clean the gun well before you shoot full house 44 mag loads again. The shorter rounds will build up some debris and it will be hard to chamber the mags. in the gun after shooting the special loads. those loads will have no problem pushing through the longer barrel.