.41 to .44 magnum reloads

[Soilarch]

For all you handgun reloaders. I have both a .41 and .44 magnum revolver, both are suitable models for hunting. Question is, even though I'm aware a .41 is adequate for deer, how close can I get the .41 to .44 levels? The .41 happens to be a much nicer gun(in regards to action and trigger) so I'd rather use it. Basically I'm deciding whether to start loading for the 41 or 44 first. Any suggestions?

[the Razorhead]

personally, I'd go .44

mainly because there's more to pick from as far as bullet selection.

but the .41 ain't no slouch.

pick the one you like to shoot the most (sounds like it's your .41), develop a load for it and go get some Bambi-burger..

[Soilarch]

OK, I finally got smart and remembered they have some handloading manuals online. I checked these and it looks as though you can easily load the 41 up to (and even beyond) factory 44 ammo. So it looks as if the 41 will get the "custom treatment" first.

Razorhead, thanks for the warning...I've looked around to make sure and 210gr .410 bullets don't seem to be too shy (I hope its this way when I actually start gathering components) Sidenote: Lighter bullets, according to my free ballistics calculator from remington outperform the heavy one from the get-go and on out to 100yds, in regards to energy. So why aren't these lighter bullets more popular?

[idahoelkinstructor]

Soilarch I shot a .41 Mag as well. Mine is a Ruger Blackhawk Single Action. I do have custom grips. I shoot and reload cast bullets (hard cast) that weigh 250 grains. With the right powder (H110) behind it I can beat a factory 44 Mag all day long. I haven't shot a elk with that load, but I know several friends who have. Also Brian Pierce from Guns and Ammo who lives here in Idaho has shot several elk with this load as well. No I don't know him but I have met him and read his articles on hunting with the .41Mag. If it can't be done with a .41 then I don't think a .44 will do it either. That is why I also own a .454 Casull, because their is not a lot it can't do. Anyway good luck!

[300winnie]

When it isn't constipated[][][][]

[the Razorhead]

ORIGINAL: Soilarch

OK, I finally got smart and remembered they have some handloading manuals online. I checked these and it looks as though you can easily load the 41 up to (and even beyond) factory 44 ammo. So it looks as if the 41 will get the "custom treatment" first.

Razorhead, thanks for the warning...I've looked around to make sure and 210gr .410 bullets don't seem to be too shy (I hope its this way when I actually start gathering components) Sidenote: Lighter bullets, according to my free ballistics calculator from remington outperform the heavy one from the get-go and on out to 100yds, in regards to energy. So why aren't these lighter bullets more popular?

At the risk of oversimplification... a lighter bullet has less momentum when driven at the same velocity.

[idahoelkinstructor]

300winnie
Fawn
Posts: 34
Joined: 7/14/2004
Status: offline RE: .41 to .44 magnum reloads (in reply to Soilarch)
When it isn't constipated

lol, so true so true. Jay I forgot about this post ,I just looked back at my history tonight. I saw your post lol it was funney, but nothing close to getting me back! Looks like I still have the upper hand![][:-][:-][&:][&:][&:]