Opinions on Browning 1885 in 38/55
I saw a good deal on a 1885 with a 24-30" bbl in 38/55. Reading up on this I can get a 250gr boolit to ~1500-1700 without too much trouble. Are you guys using the Starline 2.125" brass with the thin necks? You guys like the 38/55? How about lugging one around on an elk hunt (I have other rifles, but everyone I have must pass this test). What range can I expect to topple a bowling pin at regularly without crazy troubles (I can topple them routinely at ~150yds with my .45 Colt 1885)
Older thread, wish it would continue
Quote:
Originally Posted by
dgslyr
I have Lyman reloading books from the present to before WW 2.There was no short brass listed until Lyman #49.I don't have #48 so I don't know what is in it.
Winchester changed the SAAMI specs in the 90's some time to a more 375 Winchester like cartridge.Shorter, brass smaller bore and groove dimensions.Marlin ,when they made their Cowboy lever gun used the original dimensions since 38/55 was and is a Marlin Ballard cartridge.In the 1885 Winchester catalog it is referred to as 38/55 Ballard.In the 1899 catalog It is just 38/55.Winchester was trying to steal it even back then.
My Marlin CB will shoot 3-4 inches at 300 yards. with Williams peep sights and IMR 4759 and Hunter's Supply .381 diameter bullets.The Marlin does pretty good with 375296 too.My Uberti is just as good with the same load or not quite as good with 5744.So far the Uberti hasn't done what I want with Swiss 2F but it is close.The Lyman 380681 mold I have isn't quite large enough in diameter cast from 20/1.I am going to get something from Accurate molds soon when it cool's off enough to cast.Next month maybe.
Nearly ten years have passed since all y'all posted here. A fascinating thread to someone who has just bought their first 1885 Highwall, a Uberti Sporter in 38-55, 30in barrel.
Be great to read some updates as to what you've done, where you got to since. Accomplishments, puzzles, failures triumphs and wins.
Cheers from NZ.