357 Magnum Deer Load for my Henry Big Boy Silver

Published on September 16, 2017
Duration: 30:05

This video details the process of developing a .357 Magnum hunting load for a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle, specifically for Ohio's updated deer season regulations. It covers component selection, load data testing with Hornady XTP bullets and Winchester 296/Alliant Power Pro 300-MP powders, and range results. The final selected load is 16.7 grains of Winchester 296 with a 158gr XTP, achieving consistent velocities around 1700 fps.

Quick Summary

The optimal .357 Magnum deer hunting load for a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle uses 16.7 grains of Winchester 296 powder with a 158-grain Hornady XTP bullet. This combination achieves consistent velocities around 1700 fps and groups between 1.8-2.2 inches at 100 yards, suitable for Ohio's updated deer season regulations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Ohio Deer Regulations
  2. 02:40Component Selection: Bullets & Powders
  3. 04:30Load Data & Testing Plan
  4. 07:52Reloading Process Details
  5. 16:54Range Testing & Ballistics
  6. 18:44Results & Final Load Selection

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components for a .357 Magnum deer hunting load in a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle?

The recommended components include 158-grain Hornady XTP bullets, Winchester 296 powder (16.7 grains), Winchester Small Pistol Magnum primers, and Starline brass. This combination provides consistent accuracy and velocity for deer hunting.

What are the recommended powder charges for .357 Magnum hunting loads with 158gr and 140gr XTP bullets?

For the 158gr XTP, test Winchester 296 from 15.8 to 16.7 grains and Power Pro 300-MP from 17.3 to 18.2 grains. For the 140gr XTP, test Winchester 296 at 18.5 and 19.0 grains. The final selected load was 16.7 grains of W296 with the 158gr XTP.

What velocity and accuracy can be expected from a .357 Magnum hunting load in a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle?

The selected load of 16.7 grains of Winchester 296 with a 158gr XTP achieves velocities around 1700 fps and produces groups between 1.8 and 2.2 inches at 100 yards, offering reliable performance for deer hunting.

How do Ohio's deer hunting regulations impact .357 Magnum rifle use?

Ohio recently updated its regulations to permit straight-wall pistol cartridges, including .357 Magnum, for deer season. This allows hunters to use rifles like the Henry Big Boy Silver with appropriate .357 Magnum loads.

Related News

All News →

More Hunting & Outdoors Videos You Might Like

More from Johnny's Reloading Bench

View all →