[Contender]

Though I have no experience using the 180 FN "Spitzer" in the 357 mag, (I have in the 35 Rem) I'd say the reason for it was an attempt to hang as much bullet outside the case to increase powder space and also to take advantage of the more ballistically efficient shape.

As far as bullet expansion, I believe this bullet will expand down to about 1800 FPS so it concievably could be a short range thumper in the 357 Rifle.

However, I would tend to think the primary use for this bullet loaded in this round would be for use in the falling steel game.

Regards, Ray

 

[Contender]

Smith,

#3 is right with regard to the 150 gr. Spitzer. I have a few hundred of them left myself after purchasing them a  number of years ago. Unfortunately, they are no longer available as a component bullet from Remington last I checked. You may still find some though at Gunshows or on the dealers shelves.

They were used in 35 Rem factory ammo also but I believe it was intended for the XP-100 single-shot pistol. I have not done any real expansion testing on it but it appears a little too heavily constructed for the lower velocities of a 357 mag. I have also heard it was used in the 350 Remington Mag rifle cartridge which if so would indicate it had to be more heavily constructed to take the higher impact velocities of this round.

The bearing surface on this bullet is quite short also due to the weight/diameter ratio.

e-mail me if you like and I can send you some to play with.



Regards, Ray