.44 mag and 300g XTP

[tstr]

I've got a .44 mag Winchester 296 and a box of Hornady 300 grain XTP. The 300g XTPs have 2 cannalures.

Does anybody have load data for seating the bullet to the lower cannalure? My books give load data for the upper cannalure, but my Redhawk will fit the longer bullet and I'd like to know how much more powder I can add before losing fingers.

Thanks,
tstr

 

[mobias]

If you are already using max loads for the upper cannelure, you can increase your charge VERY SLIGHTLY by seating in the lower cannelure. You have to be very patient and methodical doing this. Don't increase your load by more than one tenth of a grain at a time. And watch for pressure signs like difficult case extraction and pierced/cratered primers. Individual guns reach their max at different rates as well. What I may get away with in my Redhawk you may not in yours and vice-versa. Again, take your time and be mindful of the condition of your cases before and after you use them. Good luck, sir.