You know you can load cheap fun to shoot roundball loads in most of your .44’s right!
Haven’t got any .433 diameter roundballs, get inventive, size down some .45 Cal roundball andadjust your load accordingly.
Handloading or reloading .44 caliber pistol ammunition, specifically with roundball bullets, involves several considerations, particularly when dealing with variations like .44 Magnum, .44 Special, and .44 Russian. These cartridges share a common bullet diameter of approximately 0.429 inches, despite their differing case dimensions and pressure ratings.
Handloading .44 Magnum with Roundball Bullets:
- Single Roundball Load: For a low noise, target practice load, a .433 diameter roundball can be used. One suggested load involves using 3.5 grains of Bullseye powder. This setup will still penetrate well but is notably less powerful, aiming for reduced recoil and noise. The bullet should be crimped lightly, with half the ball seated in the case. This configuration has been known to work well without causing leading issues in barrels due to the low velocities involved.
- Double or Multiple Roundball Loads: While less common, multiple roundball loads can be attempted for an even more reduced power option, but specific load data for this in .44 Magnum is scarce. Typically, you’d reduce the powder charge significantly to accommodate multiple balls, ensuring not to exceed safe pressure limits.
Handloading .44 Special with Roundball Bullets:
- Single Roundball: Similar to the .44 Magnum, a .433 diameter roundball can be used. Experimentation with 5.5-6.0 grains of Unique powder has been mentioned for achieving consistent ignition while keeping the load relatively quiet. This setup can be used for plinking or informal target shooting, where recoil control and noise are concerns.
- Multiple Roundball: Again, data is sparse, but the principle of reducing powder charge and ensuring each ball fits properly in the case without over-crimping is vital.
Handloading .44 Russian with Roundball Bullets:
- Single Roundball: Although less documented, the .44 Russian, being an older, lower pressure cartridge, can also use roundball bullets. The use of powders like Bullseye or Unique in minimal amounts would be suitable for maintaining the cartridge’s traditional low-pressure characteristics.
- Multiple Roundball: This is even less documented, as the .44 Russian isn’t as commonly reloaded today. However, one could theoretically adapt the .44 Special or .44 Magnum approaches, scaling back powder charges appropriately.
General Considerations:
- Bullet Diameter: As noted, the actual bullet diameter for these .44 cartridges is .429 inches. When using roundballs, selecting or sizing them to this diameter or slightly more is crucial for accuracy and chamber fit.
- Powder Selection: Fast burning powders like Bullseye, Red Dot, or Unique are often recommended for these lighter loads to ensure consistent ignition and to keep pressures within safe limits.
- Safety and Precision: Always start with lower charges than suggested and work up, monitoring for signs of overpressure. Use a chronograph to check velocities and ensure they align with your expectations for a roundball load.
- Crimping: A light crimp is generally advised to keep the roundball in place, especially since these are often target or plinking loads where high pressures aren’t a concern.
- Leading: At lower velocities, leading in the barrel can be minimal, but using a gas check or ensuring bullets are properly lubricated can further mitigate this issue.
Remember, when handloading, especially with configurations not widely published, it’s wise to consult multiple sources, use modern load data, and always prioritize safety. Handloading is an art and a science, requiring careful attention to detail to ensure both performance and safety.
Here’s some previously published data for you, I hope it helps.
Be safe and load some up to try out!