• If you are being asked to change your password, and unsure how to do it, follow these instructions. Click here

338 SHERMAN

Has anyone used reloader 23 with this cartridge? Not many powder choices out there right now.

RL23 is in the right burn rate range for the 338 Sherman, but it is too bulky for optimum performance. Ditto RL16. As Rich has stated H100V works well. Other good options are RL17 and VV N560.

Brass choice is also a relevant factor. Norma brass affords a bit more capacity, which may allow bulkier powders to work, but case durability is sacrificed in the process. RWS cases are more durable, but have less internal volume and are more difficult to obtain. I have not gotten my hands on Petersen brass, as yet, so I do not know its attributes relative to Norma and RWS.

Depending upon bullet choice, going with a longer throat may affect usable powder choices.
 
Last edited:
Thank you for the detailed explanation benchracer! I was able to procure 100v online. My local supply store has less than 15 pounds of powder and most of it is pistol and reloader 25. They typically have several hundred pounds on hand. We live in interesting times.
 
Any thoughts on using imr 4064 for fireforming/reduced loads......starting powder load? I'm new to wildcats.
Just finished my rig yesterday!!!!

Congratulations on your new rig! Here is a link to Sherman Wildcat load data being compiled by LRH members:

https://www.longrangehunting.com/threads/sherman-wildcat-reloading-data-is-here.213658/

There is a fireforming load with IMR 4064 included in that data. Generally speaking, published 338-06 data is a good place to start for 338 Sherman fireforming loads. Simply choose a mid-range charge of any listed powder and go from there.
 
I'm just starting on fire forming loads and noticed that the Peterson 280ai brass will not chamber. I thought the brass would need to stretch not be set back. Does that seem right? The 270 win brass I have chambers with no issues when necked up.
 
I'm just starting on fire forming loads and noticed that the Peterson 280ai brass will not chamber. I thought the brass would need to stretch not be set back. Does that seem right? The 270 win brass I have chambers with no issues when necked up.
Only thing I can think of is neck o d loaded or length. The case is dimensionally smaller.
 
It's the neck diameter. My readings say .368-.369 And the sharpie is scraped off most of the way down the neck on a piece I trimmed way back. That confirms it in my mind. Unfortunately I don't have a way to turn them right now. On to the 270 brass. The length is 2.5 with the neck expanded if anyone is wondering

thank you
 
Sorry to hear that! I have a guy in Butte but will have to think about Helena?
Hi Rich, it's time to bite the bullet. Who is it you recommend in Butte? I also want to do the 270 or 280. One could just use the 270 Sherman reamer for all three, just use different neck reamers? Thanks. Also, what powders seem to work best with the 270 or 280 version? How about best couple of powders for the 338?
 
Top