The Down Range Forum

Member Section => Handguns => Topic started by: elnor on March 26, 2009, 10:09:05 PM

Title: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: elnor on March 26, 2009, 10:09:05 PM
I'm interested in trying out Gold Dot 200gr bullets in factory ammo in my Taurus Tracker 4-inch .44 Magnum revolver.

I've found Blazer's loading of the Gold Dots in aluminum catridge cases locally.  I can't seem to find any of Speer's loading, locally or online, right now.

This has me wondering:  Other than the non-reloadable nature of the aluminum cases, are there any significant differences between the two loadings?  Bullets are the same, but what about powder?

Input from .44 shooters greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance!
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: tombogan03884 on March 26, 2009, 10:49:55 PM
Don't know about the bullets but have you checked out the Blazer "brass" line, brass cased reasonably priced. I know they had 9mm .45ACP and .357 Mag.
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: elnor on March 27, 2009, 02:07:28 PM
I looked on the Blazer web site but their Brass line is currently for auto pistols (9mm, .380, .40, and .45) plus .38Spec and .357.  It doesn't list .44Spec or Magnum.


Quote from: tombogan03884 on March 26, 2009, 10:49:55 PM
Don't know about the bullets but have you checked out the Blazer "brass" line, brass cased reasonably priced. I know they had 9mm .45ACP and .357 Mag.
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: tombogan03884 on March 27, 2009, 04:32:08 PM
That stinks.
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: elnor on March 29, 2009, 02:32:50 PM
Yep.  I did however manage to find some Winchester 44Spec Silvertips from CheaperThanDirt, so I think I'll give them a try vs the Blazer GDs.  Both 200gr bullets with similar velocities/energies I believe.
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: ccd on March 29, 2009, 02:41:20 PM
The 44SPL is a cartridge where it quickly pays to reload ( I have a 624.) I always keep 300 rounds loaded up with the Gold Dots (brand new brass) and then just reload my fired brass with 200gr Noslers to plink with.
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: elnor on May 26, 2009, 03:14:47 PM
FYI, CheaperThanDirt.com has Winchester .44 Special SilverTips back in stock (at least for now). Still $21.26 per box of 20 rounds.

I bought several boxes to continue building up my supply. My Tracker loves them!
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: Ping on May 26, 2009, 03:23:10 PM
Check Gander Mt. When I was there last week they had a ton of .44 and .44 Special. That seemed to be the only handgun ammo they had on hand. Guess not too many people carry .44's or cannot afford the ammo?
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: twyacht on May 27, 2009, 05:28:09 PM
Current issue of American Handgunner, has a write up on different loads of .44 Special. Although the article is not all that glowing, it has links to something that may work.
Title: Re: Blazer vs Speer loading of 44 Special 200gr Gold Dot
Post by: Clark Kent on May 31, 2009, 02:45:25 PM
Quote from: Ping on May 26, 2009, 03:23:10 PM
Check Gander Mt. When I was there last week they had a ton of .44 and .44 Special. That seemed to be the only handgun ammo they had on hand. Guess not too many people carry .44's or cannot afford the ammo?
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