How to Load Ammunition for a S&W Model #3 Revolver in 44 S&W American | MidwayUSA Reloading

Published on February 19, 2014
Duration: 5:42

This guide details the advanced process of handloading ammunition for the Smith & Wesson Model #3 American revolver in .44 S&W American caliber, using obsolete component replication techniques. It covers casting heeled bullets, converting .41 Magnum brass, and using specialized tools for priming, powder charging, seating, and crimping. The instruction emphasizes precision and the use of specific tools for achieving functional cartridges for this historical firearm, as demonstrated by Larry Potterfield.

Quick Summary

Reloading the .44 S&W American for a S&W Model #3 involves casting heeled bullets, converting .41 Magnum brass to 0.910 inches, priming, charging 25 grains of FFFg black powder, seating bullets, and crimping with specialized tools. This method addresses the obsolescence of original components.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to S&W Model #3
  2. 00:56Original Cartridge Specifications
  3. 01:32Casting and Case Preparation
  4. 02:34Priming and Powder Loading
  5. 03:57Seating, Crimping, and Lubrication
  6. 05:08Range Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you reload ammunition for a S&W Model #3 American in .44 S&W American caliber?

Reloading involves casting heeled bullets with a Buffalo Arms mold, converting .41 Magnum brass to 0.910 inches, priming with large pistol primers, charging 25 grains of FFFg black powder, seating bullets, and crimping with a modified tool. SPG lube is applied afterward.

What tools are needed to reload .44 S&W American cartridges for a Model #3 revolver?

Essential tools include a Buffalo Arms bullet mold, case trimmer, CH4D dies, RCBS primer tray, Lee powder dippers, a modified Hornady bullet puller for crimping, and digital calipers for precise measurements.

Why is case conversion necessary for reloading the .44 S&W American?

Original .44 S&W American cartridge components are obsolete. Converting .41 Magnum brass by trimming it to 0.910 inches is a practical method to create functional cases for this historical revolver caliber.

What are the key specifications for reloading the .44 S&W American cartridge?

The process uses 25 grains of FFFg black powder, a 218-grain heeled lead bullet, and requires cases trimmed to 0.910 inches. Large pistol primers are used for ignition.

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