.44 Magnum Rat/Snake Load.

[Roby.evans]

So as I developed the snake/rat loads for my Ruger New Model.44 Magnum. This the method and load I came up with.

I hand cut cardboard wads to fit the shell. 2 wads per shell.

Load primer, I used Federal 150 Large Pistol Primers (did not use magnums intentionally), add 14.7 gr or 1.0cc Lee Dipper of Accurate #9 powder, place cardboard wad into shell, I used a .357 shell to gently compress wad over powder, add 100 gr of 8 1/2oz lead shot. Place 2nd cardboard wad on top of shot, use .357 shell to gently seat wad. Use Elmers glue (1 dollop) and smear to cover, seal wad. Let harden.

Shot pictures are from 12 feet, great penetration and spread.

I had used lighter load Lee .5cc and 150 gr of 8 1/2 no penetration.
I had used lighter load Lee .7cc and 130 gr of 8 1/2 very light penetration.

I tried the shot wads made with 3D printer and did not allow for enough powder.

[Roby.evans]

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[Roby.evans]

I loaded a bunch of the Speer shot shell for my Ruger .44 using both 44 REM brass and .44 SPC brass that Eric sent to me. 6.0 grains of HP 38 in the 44 REM, with 7 /12 oz shot, and 5.8 in the 44 SPC with 8 1/2 oz shot. both set at 1.600 COAL.
I can assure you this combination (not taking into account my quick draw Mcgraw reflexes and deadeye army training "always said in Bill Murry voice from Stripes") are quite deadly accurate on the "much dreaded copper mouthed water rattlers" that have taken up residence in our pond/lake here on the ranch where my bride (who I call Dr. Doolittle because she speaks to animals) likes to go feed her fish, deer, turkeys, etc. and where the grandkids got to catch bluegill on pieces of bread...catch and release of course but making memories.
Of course I had to assume the Superman pose after my latest snake massacre since the little lady was in awe, slightly smitten and all afaint by her stealthy protector who saved the damsel in distress with his courage and accuracy in the face of imminent danger or death, she even referred to me as her hero and almost swooned in my arms...
Stay tuned for the next episode of the hero of Lonesome Dove Ranch here in Magnolia Kentucky as you will hear the damsel in distress scream "your dog has caught a live Cicada in its mouth and brought it in the house" and no you can't shoot that dang .44 in the house....