Alcan 5 pistol reloading data

JimmyJack

I need the .44Mag reloading data for AL5. It is ripped out of the alcan reloading data XI that had it. I would appreciate if someone has an old 60s or so manual with that data.

je2140

Data I have says always used Mag primer for AL5 in 44Mag

I have loaded light loads of:
7.5 grains for 215 GR lead bullet
10 grains with 240 gr lead bullet

I have a data sheet from somewhere that recommends:
10.0-11.0 grains with 225 gr lead bullet
8.0 - 9.0 grains with 250 gr lead bullet

JimmyJack

Thanks for the info, but I need .44 Mag for a 200 gr. cast bullet. I have a personal policy that I wont load unless I use a posted recipe from a manual, I know many people have developed loads that work well for them, no criticism intended. j

navc130

There are NO loads listed with AL-5 for .44 Mag. in any of my older reloading manuals. There are loads for the .41 Mag and .45 ACP. Looking at the data AL-5 is very close to AL-7 data, i.e., 0.5 to 1.0 grain less than Al-7. Possibly you could experiment. A older Reloaders Digest states that the AL series of powder is for heavy shotgun loading, but can be used for some handgun loads. Good luck.
Added: Speer No. 9 Manual. Bullet: 215 gr. lead g/c w/c. AL5 load for .41 Mag. (not .44 Mag.). 9.0 gr = 984 fps, 10.5 gr (max load) = 1156 fps.

rufe-snow

Smith & Wesson bought Alcan in the early 70's, for whatever reason? They folded them as a independent entity fairly quickly. Your AL 5 is likely almost old enough, to collect social security.

The only original data your going to find is in Handloaders Digests, and reloading manuals/pamphlets from the 60's. Check flea bay, I seen this kind of stuff, turn up fairly commonly over there.

JimmyJack

I have found data for .38 and .357 and AL5 works great! My 60s manual for AL5 had the .44 MAG page ripped out. I know I could wildcat a load but I still have my eyes and fingers and need to see a recipe to feel at ease. Thanks for the suggestions, I only have six pounds to shoot up so I may just use it with the recipes I have unless someone finds one for .44 Mag.

JimmyJack

quote:Originally posted by JimmyJack
I have found data for .38 and .357 and AL5 works great! My 60s manual for AL5 had the .44 MAG page ripped out. I know I could wildcat a load but I still have my eyes and fingers and need to see a recipe to feel at ease. Thanks for the suggestions, I only have six pounds to shoot up so I may just use it with the recipes I have unless someone finds one for .44 Mag. Lymans old manual shows .44 Mag with Al 5 using a 240 grain cast, but thats the closest I can come.

JimmyJack

Did something I dont usually try, but loaded a .44Mag with 10.0 grains of AL5 figuring it to be conservative and it worked very well.