Hi All,

Was looking to get some info on the old Elmer Keith 173 gr load in 38 brass.

.38 SPECIAL: For use in heavy-framed guns which today exist only as .357 Magnums, the Keith Lyman 173 grain bullet #358429 over 13.5 grains of #2400 with .38 Special brass. This load goes over 1400 fps. from my 8 3/8" Model 27 and is the most accurate load I have found for it. It will still go 1200+ fps. from a 3 1/2" Model 27 and makes an excellent small game load and defensive load.

I ordered some 180 gr Missouri hard cast coated. I tried it in 357 mag but the bullet combo is too long in my Ruger GP100 Match Champion. It cant be set back because of the crimp groove.

I keep reading mixed things on it, some say the new 2400 is much hotter and that, that load was waaaay too hot back then. John Taffin states its an excellent load in the above configuration.

Im trying to get some ACTUAL test done by any members on here, as far as starting load suggestions as well as what type of veocities were attained if possible. Im looking for 1200 ish out of my 4.2 inch for an under 50 yard moderate hunting load

I set up some loads to start at 10.5 grs, well below the 13.5gr. But don't want to test pressures without some input.