Quote Originally Posted by s.stimson View Post
Cheers for the replys, the issue is all around minimising noise from the range, though I think it is the range owners setting the goalposts rather than a licence change, my marlin 1894 on full load does make somewhat of a boom in the former quarry. Yes currently using leads.
Yes makes sense, remember that when loading reduced loads don't go too light, secondary detonation can occur (although very rare) but also consider that the noise from the gun can be a lot to do with the type of propellant you use.

A fast burning powder that burns completely in the barrel will not continue to burn upon leaving the barrel( muzzle flash) and therefore in theory should be quieter if that is the goal.

Of course the faster burning pistol type powders also usually have a lower bulk density, meaning they fill up less of the case (back to the first point), perhaps try trailboss for this reason which is designed to give high bulk density specifically for light loads with lead bullets for cowboy action shooting.

As suggested earlier you may want to also consider using a .44 special cases from the outset.