WB
Shot the .350 for the first time.
Saturday, November 23, 2019, 15:06

It feels like less recoil than the .223. Probably due to lack of the squeezed .22 horrific muzzle blast. It grouped great and laid all the brass right in a neat pile. The un-modded 20 rnd. GI mag did not work. So I ordered a 10-shot Ruger mag for $25.

The factory rated 145/2250 fps ran 2109 fps in my 16". I had pulled some bullets and re-inserted .356" 140 gr. JHP, they averaged 2060 fps, shot fine. I had two 200 gr. that I reduced the factory 18.5 gr. charge of whatever to 16.5 and re-inserted one 0.356" sized bullet and another standard .358 Sierra (actually 0.3565"). Just to test function and get a little bit of a basis, they averaged right at 1700 fps.

Observations:

I think the factory loads are on the lighter side with a faster powder than what can really perform. More toward medium rifle burn rates, actual .223 powders, at minimum old .357 Maximum type. Is there 200-250 fps more there for the 200 gr. JSP? If so we have a mimic .35 Remington for hunting. That would be cool for a cheap to buy straight wall case.

I have lots of fun planned. In my stock are 147 gr. 9mm FN cast as well as the RCBS 200 gr. FNGC, to be coated and shot for speed. I think it should be fruitful and a great little deer/hog gun for anyone who does not like thundering recoil.

While it would clearly work in a handgun like the TC it has no benefits over the .357 Maximum. Actually detraction, no rim and critical case length for headspace. Ditto for a lever action. It's at home in a bolt or semi platform.