Short barrel 357 load question for woodsbumming

Dave H.
[subject]
Sunday, February 01, 2026, 10:12 (3 days ago)

I’m interested in dropping down from my GP100 to my SP101 with 2 1/4” barrel for woods bumming. Not looking to shoot the SP loose or break my wrist, but want a good, practical load. What would you load?
We have small bears in south Alabama, hogs can get 250lbs+, so that’s probably my most lethal threat when out in the piney-palmetto woods. Thinking a 180 is heaviest for a short-barrel SP. I’m not as interested in velocity as I am a penetrating load. This would be for self-preservation only, not small game hunting. Appreciate the feedback, experiences and responses.

I’ve loaded some 200 gr. RCBS .358” in

WB
[subject]
Monday, February 02, 2026, 12:06 (2 days ago) @ Dave H.

.38 Spec. cases to .357 OAL. It’s pretty serious recoil even at 900 fps. Ditto the 173 gr. Keith Thompson SWC. I think I used about 5.5 gr. Unique, check on that. The traditional 158 gr. SWC is hard to beat at around 1000-1100 FPS. Lil’gun can get you there with low pressure, but I’d want magnum primers.

I too have a SP101 .357. I think you’d holler quit way before it toon on any wear. If figure it’s more stocky than a K-frame by my figuring.

I agree, stronger than any K frame

Dave H.
[subject]
Monday, February 02, 2026, 20:39 (2 days ago) @ WB

Thanks for sharing your experiences. I may just experiment when the weather gets warmer.

powered by my little forum