The .38 Special cartridge remains a popular choice for shooters, offering a balance of power and manageable recoil. Choosing the right powder is crucial for optimal performance and safety, and CFE Pistol has become a favorite among reloaders due to its versatility and accuracy. This guide provides comprehensive load data for CFE Pistol with .38 Special, emphasizing safety and precision. Always consult your own reloading manuals and follow their instructions meticulously before attempting any reloading. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for proper training and reference materials.
Understanding CFE Pistol Powder
CFE Pistol is a relatively new powder, but it has quickly gained popularity among reloaders for several reasons:
- Versatility: It performs well across a wide range of calibers and bullet weights.
- Clean Burning: CFE Pistol produces relatively little fouling, reducing cleaning time.
- Consistent Performance: Known for its accurate and consistent burn rates, resulting in predictable performance.
- Metering: This powder meters well in progressive presses, which is a significant advantage for high-volume reloaders.
However, it’s crucial to remember that even with a consistent powder, meticulous attention to detail is paramount in reloading. Each reloading session should involve double-checking your measurements and procedures.
CFE Pistol Load Data for .38 Special: A Range of Options
The following data represents a selection of load data using CFE Pistol for .38 Special. This is NOT exhaustive, and you must cross-reference this information with your own reloading manuals. Always start at the minimum charge weight and work your way up, carefully observing for pressure signs.
Disclaimer: The data below is for informational purposes only and should not be considered an endorsement. The data provided is based on commonly available sources and should be verified against your specific reloading manuals before use. Always prioritize safety.
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | CFE Pistol Charge (grains) | Primer | COL (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 125 | Lead RN | 3.8 - 4.2 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Start low, work up gradually. Observe for pressure signs. |
| 125 | Jacketed RN | 3.7 - 4.1 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Start low, work up gradually. Observe for pressure signs. |
| 148 | Lead WC | 3.5 - 3.9 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Start low, work up gradually. Observe for pressure signs. |
| 158 | Lead SWC | 3.3 - 3.7 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Start low, work up gradually. Observe for pressure signs. |
| 158 | Jacketed SWC | 3.2 - 3.6 | Small Pistol | 1.560 | Start low, work up gradually. Observe for pressure signs. |
COL refers to Cartridge Overall Length. This is the measurement from the tip of the bullet to the base of the cartridge case. Maintaining consistent COL is essential for accurate and reliable performance.
Pressure Signs: Be aware of pressure signs during testing. These may include unusually hard primers, flattened primers, excessive case head expansion, or unusual sounds from the firearm. If you observe any of these, immediately cease loading and investigate the cause.
Safety First: Essential Reloading Practices
- Consult your reloading manuals: This is the most crucial step. Every reloading manual will provide specific data for your specific components.
- Use a scale: An accurate scale is essential for measuring powder charges.
- Double-check your measurements: Always double-check your powder charges before seating the bullet.
- Use the correct primers: Use primers appropriate for your ammunition and firearm.
- Clean your equipment: Regular cleaning of your reloading equipment helps to maintain accuracy and prevent malfunctions.
- Seek professional training: If you're new to reloading, consider taking a reloading course.
Reloading can be a rewarding and cost-effective hobby, but it requires careful attention to detail and a commitment to safety. By following safe reloading practices and consulting your reloading manuals, you can enjoy the benefits of reloading .38 Special ammunition with CFE Pistol powder. Remember, safety always comes first.
