Garrett vs Buffalo Bore ammo

Looking at both websites, Garrett states that their 330 gr 44 mag should not be fired in Ruger Super Blackhawks, only Redhawks. For SBH's they have a 310 gr. However, Buffalo Bore states that their 340 gr loads can be fired in both Redhawks and Super Blackhawks, and they produce higher velocities and energy. Has anybody had any experience with this matter? I have shot both Garretts 330 gr and Buffalo Bore's 340 gr in my Redhawk, but wonder if I should try the 340's in my SBH cause the site says you can. I don't want to hurt my gun or myself. What do ya'll think??

Well I can't speak to the pressure difference between the BB and Garrett loads but I have shot the 310's and they are pretty warm but perform fantastic. I don't think they will hurt your gun. It has been my understanding that the 330's won't fit in the SBH cylinder because they are too long and only work in the Redhawk. Perhaps someone else can shed some more light on this but I would say if Buffalo Bore says the loads are ok and they aren't difficult to eject the spent case you'll be fine. Remember every gun is different. I think Buffalo Bore loads some things pretty warm too.

Im not sure what the pressures are but the length of the garret 330's is what counts them out for quite a few guns.

I loaded some Garrett 330's in my SBH and they just barely fit, however, the cylinder did rotate all the way around. I did not fire these rounds in my SBH, only in my Redhawk. I can definately tell that the Redhawk cylinder is longer than the Blackhawk. I know the 310's will work in both revolvers, I was just wondering why the Garrett 330's are not recommended for SBH's, but the BB 340's are supposed to be ok. I appreciate the comments guys.

I think Gary is correct. I've not shot either one but, I own a Gary Reeder custom and on his website he states that on his custom 44's, he builds the extended cylinder' for the 44 so, the Garrett Hammerheads can be fired in it...KRal

I agree with Gary and KRal. I believe the major problem is the OAL of the loaded round, not a pressure problem.

I`ve fired the Garrett 330`s in my FA`s 44 but have them for my Redhawk where they really shine.....

I contacted both Buffalo Bore and Randy Garrett to see what they had to say. This is what Tim Sundles of BB had to say....Quote:[Oh my gosh, do you honestly think I would recommend our 340gr. for the SBH if I had not fired it in a SBH extensively ?????

Feel free to us that load in your SBH. It will not harm your SBH.

Tim] And here is what Randy Garrett had to say: Quote[ Billy,

Buffalo Bore Ammo (BBA) uses a slightly heavier bullet, moving faster than our 330-gr +P Hammerhead Ammo, and seated deeper into the case (so that it can ostensibly be fired from the shorter cylindered Super Blackhawk). Those three characteristics result in higher chamber pressure than our ammo, yet they recommend their ammo for use in Super Blackhawks. Hmm.... I shoot Super Redhawks and Super Blackhawks and like them both, but would never subject a Super Blackhawk to the kinds of pressures associated with our 330-gr +P Hammerhead Ammo, much less another factory load that works at higher pressure. I have too much regard for my customers. This is simply a matter of judgment. As reported in Guns & Ammo Magazine, our 330-gr +P Hammerhead Ammo outpenetrates BBA's 340-grainer, and does so with less stress to the gun.

As to length and fit, yes, some Super Blackhawks will allow the cylinder to turn when loaded with our 330-grainer (many won't), but the ends of the cartridges are too close to the end of the cylinder for reliable function (given that all cast bullet ammo moves forward slightly during successive recoil pulses), and could bind the gun up. However, even more important than this is the issue of chamber pressure, and it is my view that Super Blackhawks, with their relatively thin chamber walls, should not be subjected to the kinds of pressures that typify +P loadings (much less +P+ loadings - BBA), and are only appropriate in the much stronger Ruger double-actions and Dan Wessons.

I hope this has been of some help. Thanks for your interest!

Best regards, Randy Garrett
http://www.GarrettCartridges.com
NRA Life Member
Molon Labe

These are direct quotes from both companies that emailed me back. So, I think I will stick to Garretts 310 gr in my SBH. If anyone has a "spare" SBH that they would like to run a test on, please let me know the results. I don't want to risk it. Thanks to all, Billy.

BJ Bear do you reload?

I don't think you would see much difference on any game animal shot with the 310 vs the 330/340 loads. I bought some Garret 310s years ago, before I started reloading. They shot well in my SBH.

Montanan, No, I don't reload. wish I knew how though, be alot cheaper. Pab 1, I think you're prob right about not much diff. I'm gonna stick with 310's in my SBH, and might as well use them in my Redhawk too.

I taught myself to reload. I read everything I could find about reloading before getting started. Straight walled pistol cartridges are a good place to start. For a fairly small investment, you can be set up and turn out ammo equal to Garrett and B.B. but fine tuned to your gun and at a much lower cost. This will let you do a lot more shooting.

I've always wanted to get into reloading, maybe this is a good time to check into it. What do I need to get started, as far as equipment goes?

BJ, The 330gr Hammerheads will work fine in your REdhawk. I`ve fired them through my scoped Redhawk at 100yds and was shooting
3" to 4" groups and was very satisfied with there results.This is my load of choice if I`am going to be around big game and carring my Redhawk.They will not harm your Redhawk. JFS

Thanks JFS, I've been using the 330's in my redhawk, it's my SBH that I'm concerned about. Think I need to stick with the 310's in that. Until I learn how to reload that is.

BJ BEAR, PM sent.

Lee makes a great product for a person just starting out. It is affordable and works great. You can get every expensive in a hurry with other brand of presses and extras… Any others???

Duane

Lee Press Kit, Turret

Lee Press Kit

BJ...once you start handloading the possibilities are endless. I load 320gr Penn cast bullets in my .44 SBH's for years...they shoot and function flawlessly!! I also load 340gr Penn cast in several .4LC SBH's.

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the info. It sounds like alot to learn, but definately worth it! I can't wait to be a pro at it like so many of you are. All of your advice and experience is greatly appreciated, you've all been a great help!