Just finished shooting a 
2-day CBA bench rest match this weekend, 100 and 
200-yards. I’m using a new CPA chambered in .38-55 with a 1:12 twist 6-groove Bartlien barrel. The bullets weigh 345-347 grains.

My interest in Schuetzen matches is growing. So thinking about the “old days” two questions crept into my wandering mind.

If there was a “frequently used” .38-55 bullet weight that shooters used in that chambering, what was that or the range of weights?

Using that target weight, is my 12 twist not suitable for that weight? I assume it will be lighter than my 345-grains.

Thanks!

Tom

A bullet down around 300-315 grs. will work well, and over the length of a match be gentler on your shoulder. That may result in better scores from less fatigue.

2nd other members advice. For 38/55 in BPCS years ago I settled on bullets over 300 grs for longer ranges. My rifle it’s 305 grains BPCS  385 yard turkey and 500 yard ram  targets . This choice due to the individual molds bullets not 305 vs 330. Could be because my older Douglas barreled 38/55 CPA has a slower twist than what’s common today. Few times I’ve needed heavier switched to it’s 40/65. Barrel and 400 grs.

Chickens offhand at 200 245 gr is my choice. Knock down is fine and reduced recoil is a significant advantage. Pigs at 300 yards either will do. They’re the easiest target size and knock down.

We have little BPCS left in the south, do have very well attended offhand 200 and 500 yard matches. Rather than changing loads use the well proven 245 and 305 bullets. 245 does well subsonic indoor gallery too.

Personally I don’t believe in a magic bullet. Find one that fits the bore and twist, tweak the powder charge and perfect loading technique to tighten groups. Once done scores are dependent on how the rifle is handled not by bullet switching. When a combination works don’t change it.

Not all will agree, experimenting is a popular hobby.

Boats

Have two gorgeous  Cody Ballard Highwalls, one with 15 twist Douglas...am selling on guns International. The other i rebarreled with a RKS 18 gain twist that shoots 225  at 40-1.Like shooting a 32-40  hot. With neck operations years back that saved me shooting the 225 gr. Sure like my 38-55's! The other at 300 gr Moss mold with gun.