ORIGINAL: Nolehoe
Is it safe to load a .38 special load in a 357 magnum case, to be shot in a 357 magnum pistol.
Some powders yes, and some no. Generally its safe for real fast powders like bullseye and unique. But even those you might want to bump up a grain or so. Midrange powders can burn incorrectly and require a certain pressure or might have a bullet only make it part ways in the barrel.
There are tons of low recoil 357mag loads that duplicate 38spl. Just go to alliant powder or hodgdon's webpage.