357-SIG: Bullet Prep a slightly controversial approach.

There is a veritable plethora of published Information and Data, regarding the “Bullet Diameter” best suited to this bottlenecked pistol cartridge.  Published Opinions vary. So I set about finding what works for my needs.Having loaded a number of 357 SIG rounds using Bullets designated for 38 Special / 357 Magnum (.357” Dia.) with no problems, I’ve decided to experiment and find an optimum load that works for me. My guns chambered in 357 SIG (they are Sig Sauer Semi-Auto pistols) perform best using; of all things, Blazer ammo. (commercial ammo)

NOTE: Aluminum Cases are designated as a onetime use; yes some folks have reloaded them, just NOT ME So a number of empirical experiments ensued. The parameters that varied: Powder Charge, Bullet Diameter and Bullet Weight. The result is a very good load for my guns using; Bass Shell Casings and Resized 357 Bullets, propelled by Accurate Arms #5 powder.

Re-Sizing: Copper Plated Bullets.

Resizing / Swaging Cast Lead Bullets is an everyday occurrence within the reloading community. Not so with Copper Plated Bullets.  Bullet suppliers; X-TREME Bullets and Berry’s Manufacturing, are my choice.

Using: Lee .356 Lube and Size Kit. Fits standard reloading press 7/8 x14 TPI.   Purchased from Brownells; $18.99

As seen in the Lee instruction pamphlet, using their sizing die is simplicity personified. 

I use a Redding T-7 press for various reloading tasks (not volume pistol reloading)  purchased from Brownells; $249.99. Cast Iron construction, easy to use compound linkage, seven station turret.Processing 1,000 bullets in four batches of approximately 250 works for me.  Keep a Clean and Organized work area. Set-up an area for overnight drying of the bullets with applied Lube.   For this type of processing I mount the press on my; general purpose, Butcher-block work bench. This provides a stable large open work space.

1,000: 38/357 Caliber, 125gr FP with Cannelure.As-Is diameter: 0.357”  Average Re-Sized Diameter: 0.3558”Batch of approx. 250+ lubed bullets await re-sizing.  Approximately 500 bullets finish off drying, after Lube removal.