First .38 for Marlin 1894

[DesG]

I use a RCBS 38-158 CM mould. It's a RNFP designed for Cowboy action and going through lever guns. Use a 20-1 alloy or range scrap with some lead.

If using .38 spl cases, seat the bullets so the COL is equal to the .357. The timing of the Marlin cartridge lifter is designed as such. More preferably, use magnum cases. You can still load special data in magnum cases.

I find the same. My Marlin 1894 made in 1984 is very particular in ammo. Normal col 38s will jam every few shots so I seat them to 357 length. I’ve got quite a few 38 and 357 cases so I use whatever the press is set up for on the day. I’ve noticed some marlins are more sensitive than others. Also my RCBS 38 158 swc mould from the seventies shoots into the x ring all day at 25m but doesn’t feed well. My lee round nose mould feeds beautifully but shoots like shit. I know it prefers a fat bullet. Anything sized to 357 will rattle down the micro grove!

[tinbum]

I find the same. My Marlin 1894 made in 1984 is very particular in ammo. Normal col 38s will jam every few shots so I seat them to 357 length. I’ve got quite a few 38 and 357 cases so I use whatever the press is set up for on the day. I’ve noticed some marlins are more sensitive than others. Also my RCBS 38 158 swc mould from the seventies shoots into the x ring all day at 25m but doesn’t feed well. My lee round nose mould feeds beautifully but shoots like shit. I know it prefers a fat bullet. Anything sized to 357 will rattle down the micro grove!

My Lee mould is a .358, it would be worth not sizing and tumble lubing by the looks of it. Oh, with the oal at .357 rather than .38spl.