New addition: 357 Maximum Encore

[captpaul]

My wife wanted an upgrade from her Knight muzzleloader for firearms season and I was looking for a low maintenance deer cannon. Decided to go 357 Max to keep the recoil low but still have some reach. I received my barrel from MGM a couple of days ago and put it together. Haven't shot it yet but the machine work tells me it is going to be a good one. I had the stock set made by High Plains Stock Gun Stocks in purple laminate. Topped with a Burris Fullfield II 3X9, which has been a proven performer on the cheap. I went with Weaver tactical rings to satisfy the mall ninja in me. Can't wait to test some loads with Hornady 180 SSP and AA 1680.

 

[BoilerWes]

Good choice, she will love it as will you. It is my deer set up of choice.

 

[GLOCK1982]

That is very nice. I hope my wife does not see it!!!!!!!!!

 

[captpaul]

Finally shot the Max today. Very happy with the accuracy so far with AA 1680 and Hornady SSP 180.

5 Shots @ 50 yards -- .643"

4 Shots @ 100 yards -- 1.104"

 

[spearheadersarge]

That's some good grouping! Have you tested it at any distances greater than 100 yards? I would be interested in just where it drops off that couldn't be compensated for by BDC. I've been thinking about a new deer gun and am wondering about caliber to go with.

 

[indyjoe]

That's some good grouping! Have you tested it at any distances greater than 100 yards? I would be interested in just where it drops off that couldn't be compensated for by BDC. I've been thinking about a new deer gun and am wondering about caliber to go with.

With my Handi Rifle 357 Max, I'm getting velocities that put me about + / - 3" to 200 yds. + / - 2" to 180. Forget the zeroing distances though, I'd have to find my load notes.

 

[gunselman]

Looks great. I am debating between this and a 358 Hoosier barrel.

 

[captpaul]

That's some good grouping! Have you tested it at any distances greater than 100 yards? I would be interested in just where it drops off that couldn't be compensated for by BDC. I've been thinking about a new deer gun and am wondering about caliber to go with.

I have not gone past 100 yds. yet. Next trip will be 200 yd range, hopefully with a chrono. It is easily under an inch at 100 yds if I do my part. The admin over at 357maximum.com is using the exact same load. He found a 165 yard zero is +- 3.6 at 100 and 200. His site is great and actually was a catalyst, along with Bellm TC, for my choosing this caliber.