Originally Posted by gunswizard
How do you "exactly duplicate the OAL of a .44 Special load" when using .44 Magnum brass ? Inquiring minds want to know.
Think about it a bit. It is not a complicated concept.

As an example, Speer # 15 recommends the 200 gr Gold dot over 7.6 gr Universal at 1.49 inches COAL as a max load in the 44 Spec.

So load it in 44 mag brass and seat the bullet to 1.49 inches COAL. Simple enough.

I have been using 41 special data to load the 41 mag at 41 special COAL for many, many years. I also use 32 Smith Long data as well as 32 H&R data to load 327 brass. At the proper COAL for the load data, sometimes the bullet is seated below the mouth of the brass. Often the brass crimps just over the canalure.

I can not take credit for the concept. It was advocated by the good Dr. Ken Howell on these boards several times before his death.

The advantages are two fold. You never have to worry about cleaning the chambers between using 44 special ammo and 44 mag. And you have ready sources of reduced load data at your fingertips in any reloading manual.

I can add photos if that is needed to clarify the issue.

People who choose to brew up their own storms bitch loudest about the rain.