If I wasn't already subscribed, that would have gotten one. I also like that he doesn't edit out the misses. As the owner of an aging set of eyes. I have similar issues.
38-55 hands down one of the best medium bore cartridges I've ever shot. I can load em at cowboy velocities for plinking and it does even better when hot rodded. Excellent accuracy with one of the best grouping bar none
I absolutely LOVE the 38-55!!! I have two - one made in 1900, a model 1894, the Klondike model, and an Angle Eject 94 Trapper 16 inch. LOVE them both!!!
I have my dads 38-55 that was his dads and is dated to 1896 with an octagon barrel. 11 notches in the bottom of the stock. Long checks are moose, short ones are deer. Only my son will get this gun!
The best 200 yard group I ever shot [ iron sights ] was with my C Sharps single shot rifle in 38-55 Ten shots into 1 and 11/16ths inches. Classic 255 gr bullet over FFg BP
The 38-55 is not now forgotten. A friend is a firearms dealer and deals in almost exclusively Winchester lever action rifles. He sell a lot of 38-55 rifles. New ones.
I have a Marlin that is way over 100 years old and it is a 38.40 rifle. It too is an excellent shooting rifle. It was my grandfathers gun that was passed to my father and then to me and I'm 67 now. That rifle has killed more deer than any other rifle in my gun cabinet and stiil does every once in a while.
Just came across your channel. Like it. Have had Marlins in 45-70 and 444. Sold them to get a model 71 in 348. Picked up a Chief Crazy Horse in 38-55 when they were a drag on the market. The magazine ring cracked which turns out to be common if they are shot with heavier loads. Barrel is very thin and I think it flexes too much. Bought a replacement ring but decided to make it look like my grandpa's 32 special. He had his rebarreled from 30-30 octagon to lighten it up some by having a round barrel installed and wanted something with a little more punch. Also had a button magazine instead of the full length tube. I purchased another tube, had it cut down and gunsmith made an end so it is now a button mag. Looks like a fancy model 55 and also my grandpa's. Have used Lee mould and size to 379 (barrel is 379). Picked up a bunch of Barnes 255 grain .377 bullets. Over Reloder 7 I get 1875fps with great accuracy. Macular degeneration forced me to shoot left handed and had a Pearson scout mount installed. Always liked the gun and caliber. Also picked up a blr in 358 which few even know about. Is a good caliber too. Have a good day and year.
I've always had a soft spot for the .38-55. I've had a couple of them over the years, I have an 1894 Winchester that's pretty beat up looking but the darn thing shoots so well it's scary. I picked up a second 1894 last fall, half mag / full length barreled gun but it didn't shoot as well as the old octagon barreled rifle I own. I hunted with it last fall and this fall, never crossed paths with a deer with it, but a whitetail buck crossed paths on Election Day this fall with another Winchester 1894 of mine in another forgotten caliber, the .32-40 and it did very well filling the freezer with venison. I handload for both the .38-55 and the .32-40, I found them both pretty easy to load for.
As a reloader with 50 years experience, I've never had a 3855, but everything about it seems to be an extremely well balanced cartridge. It's an old cartridge I don't know how old, but I tend to think in modern rifles it could be probably the most perfect deer and hog cartridge. I would press it onto the bigger black bears and maybe the smaller grizzly, I think it has a whole lot more potential than it originally did. From what I've read the cartridge is extremely accurate, but that was qualified in the 1960s, were extremely accurate was a 4 inch group at 100 yards, I believe this could be a one holer in the right rifle.
@stephenembrey883 originally started out as 38 55 Ballard in late 1800s for single shots. Ur right if 30 30 didn't come along I think it wud b more popular today. Thanks for stopping by
I shot my first deer with a winchester 38/55 and 255 grain Imperial shells that were sitting on a shelf in a sport shop for decades.Very accurate at anything within 125 yards.My deer dropped on the spot.My hunt was over and an hour drag lay ahead of me.
A great cartridge. My late father learned the hard way, with this one. Years ago, he bought a rifle that had the larger bore, but wasn't labelled as such. Took him a while to figure it out. But he did. This over sized bore problem has been going on for decades. Might have been a contributing factor in the declining interest in this otherwise great cartridge. But thanks to people like you, we know its a worthwhile option for many decades to come.
@@BuckskinDave I had bet my brother that you would say " thanks for stopping by ". GENERIC RESPONSES AND TOO MUCH RELIGIOUS PREACH, IS THE SINGLE MOST LIMITING FACTOR IN SUBSCRIPTIONS AND LIKES. LIMITED EFFORT AND GENUINE INTEREST IS THE DEMISE OF MOST MEDIA PLATFORM CHANNELS. YOU GET MORE FOR LESS, WHEN YOU ARE REALLY INTO WHAT YOU DO. BUT ITS THE OTHER WAY AROUND, WHEN YOU JUST GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS.
I have one of those .375 Big Bore 94's XTR model will not print a group with factory ammunition. I have to use custom cast bullets for good accuracy. That 250 gr gas check from Beartooth Bullets sized to .379 works well.
I also have a .375 Winchester. I enjoy shooting it. I don’t know how the accuracy compares to a .38-55, because mine is chambered in a Winchester 94 Big Bore. This can’t compare to a Ballard for accuracy.
I just picked up a new 38-55, Win, 1894, 1/2 octagonal barrel, 26 inch. Made by Miroku, haven't shot it yet. But have high expectations of it. I don't know that I will ever hunt with it, but should the need arise... Have ammo, brass, bullets and primers. Picked up bullet molds for 255 grain and swedging dies if needed. Thanks for sharing
I once harvested a ruffed grouse at a paced distance of 40 paces in dense brush, with my handload of a 255gr lead alloy over (an unspecified amount of) Unique, and removed the top quarter inch of the bird's skull, offhand. If I had to have only ONE rifle, this would be it!!
I might add that I was hunting moose at the time, and had factory jacketed rounds in the tube... but since the moose seemed to be elsewhere, I decided to exchange rounds and load one of my "soft" cartridges. Timmins, Ontario, Canada - 1978!! GOOD times!!
Hi, the 375 Winchester (reminds of the MASH song), 'You can take or leave it if you please', I do have a fond spot for the 35 cal (9mm/357/375), short or long arms within their capabilities, you can't reinvent the wheel like the 350 legend, to me it's just a rimless version for people who don't want to understand history, better peformance with more researched components, people coped with what they had in the day, neck down the 38/55 & what do you have a 30/30, 32 winchester (32/30), they all started off as coal choofers (blackpowder), love the history & love the vids 🍻😊
My Winchester 1894 being an early gun, made in 1895 has a slightly different twist in the rifling than the later 1894's I've owned, even as early as one I had made in 1912. A load it loves and gets the best accurate is a charge of Unique and a 280 grain bullet from Montana Bullet Works. This load isn't moving all that fast, but with it being an early gun like that I don't push it all that much but it shoots better than I am ever going to need, where I am in the northeast 100 yards is about as far as I could hope to even see a deer in the thick brush, 50-60 yards is actually pretty more likely, and the .38-55 is great here. I've killed deer with the .30-30 and other lever gun rounds, but to me the .38-55 is probably as good as it gets without having to step up to a larger frame gun that slings a .45-70, although I would really like to play around with an 1886 Winchester in .40-82, knew a guy who hunted with one and killed a lot of big deer and some bears with it.
I am interested in hearing more about your earlier gun. I also have one manufactured in 1895 chambered in 38-55 and am trying to work up a round for it that is decent at 50-75 yards
Just "knowing what I know" of History and the Black Powder ara, I suspect this Was our FIRST 30/ 30 type go getter! with the avalible materials and parts of this time. 250 grn ball cooking at 1300 plus, thats serious Energy!
That's what Cindy uses for elk. For elk, you need to be close, 150 yards or less is best, 200yds max, and 200yds is probably really too far, but it works great! It is a really good cartridge. I like it better than the 30WCF. It seems to kick less. Really, the 375W I think the main difference is the loading. They are basically a "hot load" 38-55, but they are a little different. I don't recall for sure, but I think there is a slight difference in the brass. Maybe different size rims? I don't know.....I might be wrong. I can't remember now...…..
This was bugging me, so I looked it up. 375W brass is thicker, and slightly shorter. 38-55 bullets are about .005 inch bigger and the case is a hair longer. I guess 375W builds more pressure because of less case capacity, and hotter powders. I've never shot a 375W. I've heard it's a good round.
@@MuskratOutdoors It is mostly about the pressure and h 375 is a true 375, the 38-55 is originally a true 38 and some of the older guns have bores a couple tho over. When I barreled mine I did it in 375 thot it would be easier to to get components, butt I end up making my own bullets anyway.
You can use 375 Win. brass to load 38-55. 38-55 brass is a little to long for 375 Win. chambers but will chamber, it is dangerous though because the case mouth may not open up fast enough and cause too high of a peak pressure. I read the other day some company is making 38-55 with a shorter case that can be used in a 375 big-bore 94. I forget who it is though and where I saw it.
The .38-55 is a good cartridge, once used for long distance shooting. Now that it's loaded without black powder, more than half the case is never utilized. That's why I switched over to a .44-40. Both are great short range deer rifles when chambered as such. The advantage is using a premium jacketed bullet instead of the original lead. A friend of mine still uses his .38-55 and would never sell it.
Lever guns are definitely where the "action" is. I have both an 1866 Winchester (Miroku) reproduction rifle and a Taylor's and Co. (Uberti) 1873...both are chambered in .44-40. Anyone who doesn't own one of these old calibers in a lever is missing out on all the nostalgia and fun. I get a real kick out of hunting with them as I do with my .50 cal. Traditions-Hawken in flintlock. Thank you for the video.@@BuckskinDave
So I maybe asking a redundant question but here goes is it possible the issues you are having with stability is all in the rifling rate? As we know manufacturers can and do choose to make a rifling rate not appropriate for what the shooter intends to use it for. Best example the. 244 Remington Remington never thought hunters would want to hunt deer with it, and put 1 in 12 twist in it. Wouldn't stabilize 100 grain bullets for sour owl dip. So introduced it as 6mm Remington with a 1 in 9. Take my fave the .35 whelen, with a 1 in 12,14,or 16 twist. You basically have 3 completely differentially capable rifles. Mountain man
I have a Winchester Model 1894 with a manufactured date around 1895. Have you or anyone else who may own one run the modern ammo through an older rifle? I am curious about how to get better accuracy out of mine. The Black Hills stuff is all over the place at 50 yards.
You may want to slug the bore and see exactly what diameter you're running, make sure the bullet diameter is optimal for rifling engagement. Also run within stability window for your twist rate.
I hope you know how incredibly lucky you are to have a site like that to shoot at. I live on Long Island and have to drive 25 miles to shoot in a sand pit 100 yards long...for $25. And where do you get a name like Morelli living out there? Pisano! : )
@@BuckskinDave Hahahahaha....if I had it all to do over again, I'd be right out there with ya! On the other hand, I did go to a nice Italian restaurant last night and had a big plate of Rigatoni and giant meatball....LOL
I use the original length cases from star line and 4198, aa5744 gives the best velocity and 3f black with a grease wad and a tite crimp. I use up to 379 grain lead and 377 lead sized to my bore at .377
I have a 375 Winchester lever and it’s the same exactly as 38 55 I moose hunt with that round holy shit it’s got some stopping power good to see some one remember this piece hello from big game in Canada I have a gun smith here that loads them forme in 375 grn
How my dad explains it. It's a big bore model 94. 375 his shells eject out the top so it's a earlier model later models eject still from the top but on a angle so people can put scopes on em but I like the iron sights
Yea my dads is the old 1 as well its definitely a good dependable gun he killed 2 deer with 1 shot at 100+ yards he actually didn't see the second deer. It was a total accident I think the gun itself is a little much for deer he calls it his buffalo gun I like it for killing hogs
I bought a Marlin model 1893 --- almost 5 years back. --- WHO ever had it before me, had the barrel shortened and entire piece, nickel plated. Beautiful rifle and wood finish ---- People give me this issue that it's not ORIGINAL with the nickel plating. ---- I see things MUCH DIFFERENT than most. ---- It was shipped in 1897 --- The SAFETY MODEL Black powder - Smokeless powder 38 - 55 cal. ---- YOU can see where the top receiver side has wear on it, as if it was being carried on a saddle rig EVERY DAY. ---- AND as you said it was extremely expensive back in the day ---- So I am thinking it was some wealthy Cattle man ♂️ that ORIGINALLY owned this rifle I now own. ---- I have now gotten the bug for COWBOY SHOOTING COMPETITION and intend on using it. ---- So reloading is going to be my best option ---- Would appreciate what set up you can recommend???? ---- And what pistol you would use as it's partner for COWBOY COMPETITION SHOOTING??? --- IM THINKING ABOUT the Man with No Name model in . 38 caliber ?????
Since Henry came out with side gates I a sure thought a wanted one their .38-55. Now I'm leaning towards the .45-70 simply for ammo availability and load options. Anyone load both .38-55 and 45-70?
Had two .45-70 rifles in the past. Nothing wrong with them, just not any grizzly or buffalo where I live; and every mall cowboy has a .45-70 but the .38-55 opens conversations at the range and occasionally on private lands.
depends on what your hunting needs are. If you're going after moose, bear, elk and the larger deers. The 45-70 is the better choice, for smaller deer size game 38-55 with a 255gr and some H322 or H4198 powders are the best choice. Even Rx7 should do the trick. I own both and shoot em according to what I'm after
Pussy Bullet was my stage name when I was an exotic dance during the great coronavirus lockdown. I miss the money but i have a tiny bit of dignity that I just wont let go of. On a serious note I might just have my old pre cross bolt safety Marlin rebored to this cartridge, im not the best shot out there but i think that particular gun may have an issue with its chamber as spent shells look pregnant. Just something to think about if I can scrape the coin together to get it done. Thanks for your video, definitely informative.
Hello! I'm starting to reload for 38-55 and I have a Reproduction Uberti High Wall, 30" barrel. Are you trimming your cases to 2.085? Are you using starline Long or short brass? It's a little confusing on which brass to use Long or short and where to TRIM my brass. I'm going to use Oregon Trail 240 gn .380 bullet. I bought custom factory ammo recently with a .380 bullet and my gun loves it so now I want to try and reload for it. Thanks for you time. Great vid for 38-55. You don't see very many reloading vids on this caliber.
First off I am in the process of editing a 38-55 reloading vid so keep on the look out. It does not address some of your questions because I do not load for a single shot, just a lever gun. I use starline brass and have never had to trim it probably because I don't shoot them past 1890 fps and low pressure. I would recommend you trim them according to the loading manual and if your chamber allows you a different length you will need to measure it and cut your brass to fit. You are entering a loading hobby that will require you to make your measurements to your gun and need be careful getting loading advice from others it might be dangerous in your equipment.
I'm looking at getting a 94 38-55 . I'm wondering what the optimal barrel length is in your opinion? I see Winchester offers 20 and 24 and Uberti offers 20 24 and 26 ? I don't mind having the longer barrel if I will gain velocity I do plan to hunt and I also plan to load black powder and cast my own bullets. Do you think that with black powder I'll gain velocity all the way out to 26 in? Do you have any opinion on the Uberti 94? Thank you for your advice I appreciate it.
I like the 24 myself, wouldn't worry bout the velocity with black powder. I would try to get a Win first, Ubertis are good to tho. Thanks for checking in
@@BuckskinDave I've been kinda leaning towards the Winchester 94 deluxe sporter half octagon half round 24 in. I was thinking I probably wouldn't gain much from the 26 but the big positive with Uberti is it doesn't have the Tang safety and I would like to have a Tang site. I've been told it's still possible to put a tang sight on the Winchester also but I may just go with receiver site too. Thanks
Depends on the barrel you get. the barrel I put on this rifle is a .375, but the originals were actually closer to 38. I am casting 375 bullets. Thanks for dropping in
A young friend recently squired a Marlin Model 1893 in 38-55. It was made in 1894. Anyone have any thoughts on what bullet mold to buy. We shoved a lead plug through the bore. It mics at .3779 inches. Contacted Lyman, and they suggested a mold that casts bullets with a .381 inch diameter. Not to sure about that. We plan to use black powder for loading, because we are not sure if barrel can withstand smokeless powder. Any help is appreciated.
I would go to a BPCR Forum and see if some of those guys have any suggestions. The old barrels were a bit bigger than the new models. Thanks for stopping by
Hello again sir this question doesn’t really pertain to your video, but I just thought I’d ask you anyway with knowledge of amo I’ve always been a big fan of the 45/70 cartridge and I have a 1895 Marlin (love that lever canon) and I’m looking at getting a Uberti 45/70 Highwall / Sharps I don’t reload and my question to you sir is Do you know if I can shoot all of the off the shelf smokeless brand ammunition in the Uberti that I can shoot in my Marlin Or would I have to stick to black powder loads with certain grains only? Thanks again for all of your cool videos and knowledge Cheers 🍻
Morelli's Tactical Advantage good to know. That the rifle can handle some hot load and yes I will definitely do some more research. Thank you for the information 👍🏼
You never said anything about bullet diameters that you’re using. Using the correct diameter Bullet is essential for accuracy in a 38-55. I have two 38-55s both Winchester. A model 1894 and a model 1885 target rifle. The standard groove diameter in Winchester rifles has always been 379, I don’t know what their new guns are .For my hunting rounds I use .377 diameter Barnes bullets.For target shooting I use .380 diameter lead bullets traveling about 1350 fps which is is a superbly accurate load even out to very large long ranges.
While you were naming powders that you had tried I was saying 3031 At my phone screen. And when you finally settled on the 250 grain gas check and said 3031! I shouted F**K YA! I guess I have strong feelings for that powder. I load it in my 45-70 and in a short barrel 308. And of coarse in my 30-30 it's the "one"
@@dickgoesinya9419 it's WAY less sensitive than ball powders and a hair more sensitive than varget. I worked up a 3031 load for my 308 and once I got it dialed in, the different between 95 degrees on the range and 15 degrees on the mountains does not detectably change my poi at 100 yards.
A guy can still get it some places around here but not very common. Don't know what is cost because I have only shot hand loads. Thanks for stopping by
Fireformed 30-30 brass works. It is a little shorter than 38-55 but using cast bullets they work well in my Lyman Ideal single shot and my Winnie 94. For a casual shooter the Lee hand loaders work well, no press needed and it just adds to the fun! Most ranges are awash with 30-30 brass and there are lots of people casting lead for the Cowboy shooters, not hard to find at all.
Great dependable gun smoke a hogs ass at 100 yards it's my old mans gun he killed 2 deer with 1 shot at 150 yards both deer dropped where they stood. The only downfall is the damn ammo its costly n hard to find
"I don't know what the hell this is?! An episode of me... Anyway." ....alright I like this guy.👍🏻
If I wasn't already subscribed, that would have gotten one.
I also like that he doesn't edit out the misses. As the owner of an aging set of eyes. I have similar issues.
38-55 hands down one of the best medium bore cartridges I've ever shot. I can load em at cowboy velocities for plinking and it does even better when hot rodded. Excellent accuracy with one of the best grouping bar none
I absolutely LOVE the 38-55!!! I have two - one made in 1900, a model 1894, the Klondike model, and an Angle Eject 94 Trapper 16 inch. LOVE them both!!!
They are great! Thanks for droppin in
I have a 38-55 in an 1893 marlin love it . Great gun!
Always wanted one of them, seems like a really good cartridge especially for eastern Woodland hunting
Close to 30-30 or 375 Winchester, it's a dandy.
And now you have one
I have my dads 38-55 that was his dads and is dated to 1896 with an octagon barrel.
11 notches in the bottom of the stock. Long checks are moose, short ones are deer.
Only my son will get this gun!
Nice piec of history, thanks for checking in
The best 200 yard group I ever shot [ iron sights ] was with my C Sharps single shot rifle in 38-55 Ten shots into 1 and 11/16ths inches. Classic 255 gr bullet over FFg BP
100th commenter here. How in the heck did I miss this channel? Great stuff.
Glad to have you aboard
The 38-55 is not now forgotten. A friend is a firearms dealer and deals in almost exclusively Winchester lever action rifles. He sell a lot of 38-55 rifles. New ones.
Uberti still chambers some of their lever rifles in .38-55.
I have a Marlin that is way over 100 years old and it is a 38.40 rifle. It too is an excellent shooting rifle. It was my grandfathers gun that was passed to my father and then to me and I'm 67 now. That rifle has killed more deer than any other rifle in my gun cabinet and stiil does every once in a while.
You gotta love em! Thanks for stopping by
Just came across your channel. Like it. Have had Marlins in 45-70 and 444. Sold them to get a model 71 in 348. Picked up a Chief Crazy Horse in 38-55 when they were a drag on the market. The magazine ring cracked which turns out to be common if they are shot with heavier loads. Barrel is very thin and I think it flexes too much. Bought a replacement ring but decided to make it look like my grandpa's 32 special. He had his rebarreled from 30-30 octagon to lighten it up some by having a round barrel installed and wanted something with a little more punch. Also had a button magazine instead of the full length tube. I purchased another tube, had it cut down and gunsmith made an end so it is now a button mag. Looks like a fancy model 55 and also my grandpa's. Have used Lee mould and size to 379 (barrel is 379). Picked up a bunch of Barnes 255 grain .377 bullets. Over Reloder 7 I get 1875fps with great accuracy. Macular degeneration forced me to shoot left handed and had a Pearson scout mount installed. Always liked the gun and caliber. Also picked up a blr in 358 which few even know about. Is a good caliber too. Have a good day and year.
Thanks for stopping in
I've always had a soft spot for the .38-55. I've had a couple of them over the years, I have an 1894 Winchester that's pretty beat up looking but the darn thing shoots so well it's scary. I picked up a second 1894 last fall, half mag / full length barreled gun but it didn't shoot as well as the old octagon barreled rifle I own. I hunted with it last fall and this fall, never crossed paths with a deer with it, but a whitetail buck crossed paths on Election Day this fall with another Winchester 1894 of mine in another forgotten caliber, the .32-40 and it did very well filling the freezer with venison. I handload for both the .38-55 and the .32-40, I found them both pretty easy to load for.
Those are fine old calibers especially in the deer woods. Thanks for stopping by.
My wife gave me a cool old Winchester 38-55
Serial number 177293
Can you help me figure out how old it is?
It would seem pretty old, but you can get on Winchester web site or even contact them and they will be able to give you a date of manufacture
As a reloader with 50 years experience, I've never had a 3855, but everything about it seems to be an extremely well balanced cartridge. It's an old cartridge I don't know how old, but I tend to think in modern rifles it could be probably the most perfect deer and hog cartridge. I would press it onto the bigger black bears and maybe the smaller grizzly, I think it has a whole lot more potential than it originally did. From what I've read the cartridge is extremely accurate, but that was qualified in the 1960s, were extremely accurate was a 4 inch group at 100 yards, I believe this could be a one holer in the right rifle.
@stephenembrey883 originally started out as 38 55 Ballard in late 1800s for single shots. Ur right if 30 30 didn't come along I think it wud b more popular today. Thanks for stopping by
I shot my first deer with a winchester 38/55 and 255 grain Imperial shells that were sitting on a shelf in a sport shop for decades.Very accurate at anything within 125 yards.My deer dropped on the spot.My hunt was over and an hour drag lay ahead of me.
Thanks for dropping by
A great cartridge. My late father learned the hard way, with this one. Years ago, he bought a rifle that had the larger bore, but wasn't labelled as such. Took him a while to figure it out. But he did. This over sized bore problem has been going on for decades. Might have been a contributing factor in the declining interest in this otherwise great cartridge. But thanks to people like you, we know its a worthwhile option for many decades to come.
Thanks for stopping by
@@BuckskinDave I had bet my brother that you would say " thanks for stopping by ". GENERIC RESPONSES AND TOO MUCH RELIGIOUS PREACH, IS THE SINGLE MOST LIMITING FACTOR IN SUBSCRIPTIONS AND LIKES. LIMITED EFFORT AND GENUINE INTEREST IS THE DEMISE OF MOST MEDIA PLATFORM CHANNELS. YOU GET MORE FOR LESS, WHEN YOU ARE REALLY INTO WHAT YOU DO. BUT ITS THE OTHER WAY AROUND, WHEN YOU JUST GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS.
I have one of those .375 Big Bore 94's XTR model will not print a group with factory ammunition. I have to use custom cast bullets for good accuracy. That 250 gr gas check from Beartooth Bullets sized to .379 works well.
That's a good bullet for both guns. Thanks for stopping by
The 375 Winchester is a superb cartridge. I won't give up mine for anything. Used her on a buff, and was more than satisfactory. One shot, one kill.
Thanks for stopping by
I also have a .375 Winchester. I enjoy shooting it. I don’t know how the accuracy compares to a .38-55, because mine is chambered in a Winchester 94 Big Bore. This can’t compare to a Ballard for accuracy.
I just picked up a new 38-55, Win, 1894, 1/2 octagonal barrel, 26 inch. Made by Miroku, haven't shot it yet. But have high expectations of it. I don't know that I will ever hunt with it, but should the need arise... Have ammo, brass, bullets and primers. Picked up bullet molds for 255 grain and swedging dies if needed. Thanks for sharing
Sounds like fun. Thanks for stopping by
Love my win1894 38-55. Still loading and shooting great. Glad my son will have there great,great grandfathers rifle too enjoy
It's a great caliber, when I shot it for the vid I noticed I need to make some bullets and Load up a batch.
Great video. Thanks for all the info.
Thanks for stopping by
I once harvested a ruffed grouse at a paced distance of 40 paces in dense brush, with my handload of a 255gr lead alloy over (an unspecified amount of) Unique, and removed the top quarter inch of the bird's skull, offhand. If I had to have only ONE rifle, this would be it!!
I like shooting the lead cast out of mine too, we have blue grouse here to decap.
I might add that I was hunting moose at the time, and had factory jacketed rounds in the tube... but since the moose seemed to be elsewhere, I decided to exchange rounds and load one of my "soft" cartridges. Timmins, Ontario, Canada - 1978!! GOOD times!!
Hi, the 375 Winchester (reminds of the MASH song), 'You can take or leave it if you please', I do have a fond spot for the 35 cal
(9mm/357/375), short or long arms within their capabilities, you can't reinvent the wheel like the 350 legend, to me it's just a rimless version for people who don't want to understand history, better peformance with more researched components, people coped with what they had in the day, neck down the 38/55 & what do you have a 30/30, 32 winchester (32/30), they all started off as coal choofers (blackpowder), love the history & love the vids 🍻😊
Thank you Dave I would love to have one in this caliber
It's a keeper
My Winchester 1894 being an early gun, made in 1895 has a slightly different twist in the rifling than the later 1894's I've owned, even as early as one I had made in 1912. A load it loves and gets the best accurate is a charge of Unique and a 280 grain bullet from Montana Bullet Works. This load isn't moving all that fast, but with it being an early gun like that I don't push it all that much but it shoots better than I am ever going to need, where I am in the northeast 100 yards is about as far as I could hope to even see a deer in the thick brush, 50-60 yards is actually pretty more likely, and the .38-55 is great here. I've killed deer with the .30-30 and other lever gun rounds, but to me the .38-55 is probably as good as it gets without having to step up to a larger frame gun that slings a .45-70, although I would really like to play around with an 1886 Winchester in .40-82, knew a guy who hunted with one and killed a lot of big deer and some bears with it.
I am interested in hearing more about your earlier gun. I also have one manufactured in 1895 chambered in 38-55 and am trying to work up a round for it that is decent at 50-75 yards
Years ago I had a 1893 Marlin in .38-55 and it was great with handloads. I do miss it.
Just "knowing what I know" of History and the Black Powder ara, I suspect this Was our FIRST 30/ 30 type go getter! with the avalible materials and parts of this time.
250 grn ball cooking at 1300 plus, thats serious Energy!
I'd say so, thanks for stopping by
I ran out of ammo for my Win 1894 probably 40 years ago. It was my great uncle's. It just sits on the wall now. :-)
That'll preserve it for decades to come.
That's what Cindy uses for elk. For elk, you need to be close, 150 yards or less is best, 200yds max, and 200yds is probably really too far, but it works great! It is a really good cartridge. I like it better than the 30WCF. It seems to kick less. Really, the 375W I think the main difference is the loading. They are basically a "hot load" 38-55, but they are a little different. I don't recall for sure, but I think there is a slight difference in the brass. Maybe different size rims? I don't know.....I might be wrong. I can't remember now...…..
This was bugging me, so I looked it up. 375W brass is thicker, and slightly shorter. 38-55 bullets are about .005 inch bigger and the case is a hair longer. I guess 375W builds more pressure because of less case capacity, and hotter powders. I've never shot a 375W. I've heard it's a good round.
@@MuskratOutdoors It is mostly about the pressure and h 375 is a true 375, the 38-55 is originally a true 38 and some of the older guns have bores a couple tho over. When I barreled mine I did it in 375 thot it would be easier to to get components, butt I end up making my own bullets anyway.
@@MuskratOutdoors it is mostly about thee prssure
You can use 375 Win. brass to load 38-55. 38-55 brass is a little to long for 375 Win. chambers but will chamber, it is dangerous though because the case mouth may not open up fast enough and cause too high of a peak pressure. I read the other day some company is making 38-55 with a shorter case that can be used in a 375 big-bore 94. I forget who it is though and where I saw it.
@@robertmurdock9750 well what the hell good is that! 🤤. Just kidding partner.
The .38-55 is a good cartridge, once used for long distance shooting. Now that it's loaded without black powder, more than half the case is never utilized. That's why I switched over to a .44-40. Both are great short range deer rifles when chambered as such. The advantage is using a premium jacketed bullet instead of the original lead. A friend of mine still uses his .38-55 and would never sell it.
Thanks for stopping by
Lever guns are definitely where the "action" is. I have both an 1866 Winchester (Miroku) reproduction rifle and a Taylor's and Co. (Uberti) 1873...both are chambered in .44-40. Anyone who doesn't own one of these old calibers in a lever is missing out on all the nostalgia and fun. I get a real kick out of hunting with them as I do with my .50 cal. Traditions-Hawken in flintlock. Thank you for the video.@@BuckskinDave
@@hugostiglitz2388 I definitely enjoy them
I got a Winchester 1894 Crazy Horse 33l55 in the Box commemorative never shot beautiful
So I maybe asking a redundant question but here goes is it possible the issues you are having with stability is all in the rifling rate?
As we know manufacturers can and do choose to make a rifling rate not appropriate for what the shooter intends to use it for. Best example the. 244 Remington Remington never thought hunters would want to hunt deer with it, and put 1 in 12 twist in it. Wouldn't stabilize 100 grain bullets for sour owl dip. So introduced it as 6mm Remington with a 1 in 9. Take my fave the .35 whelen, with a 1 in 12,14,or 16 twist. You basically have 3 completely differentially capable rifles.
Mountain man
Definitely have to match bullet to rifling. Thanks for dropping in
I have a Winchester Model 1894 with a manufactured date around 1895. Have you or anyone else who may own one run the modern ammo through an older rifle? I am curious about how to get better accuracy out of mine. The Black Hills stuff is all over the place at 50 yards.
I don't shoot factory thru mine so I can't answer that for you. Thanks for checking
You may want to slug the bore and see exactly what diameter you're running, make sure the bullet diameter is optimal for rifling engagement. Also run within stability window for your twist rate.
That thing cycles like butter
I hope you know how incredibly lucky you are to have a site like that to shoot at. I live on Long Island and have to drive 25 miles to shoot in a sand pit 100 yards long...for $25. And where do you get a name like Morelli living out there? Pisano! : )
I do no I am lucky, but I worked my dego ass off to get here. Nice to hear from a fellow pizan.
@@BuckskinDave Hahahahaha....if I had it all to do over again, I'd be right out there with ya! On the other hand, I did go to a nice Italian restaurant last night and had a big plate of Rigatoni and giant meatball....LOL
yum
I use the original length cases from star line and 4198, aa5744 gives the best velocity and 3f black with a grease wad and a tite crimp. I use up to 379 grain lead and 377 lead sized to my bore at .377
Good shooting Dave. Enjoy watching. Looks a bit nippy up your way. About the same here. Hope you and yours are well.
Yup finally dropped below zero this morning. Not much snow tho. Everyone here good, hope the same there. Thanks for stoppin by
I have a 375 Winchester lever and it’s the same exactly as 38 55 I moose hunt with that round holy shit it’s got some stopping power good to see some one remember this piece hello from big game in Canada I have a gun smith here that loads them forme in 375 grn
Correct, but never ever shoot a 375 in an old 38-55. The 375 has twice the pressure.
How my dad explains it. It's a big bore model 94.
375 his shells eject out the top so it's a earlier model later models eject still from the top but on a angle so people can put scopes on em but I like the iron sights
I built mine from an old top eject 94.
Yea my dads is the old 1 as well its definitely a good dependable gun he killed 2 deer with 1 shot at 100+ yards he actually didn't see the second deer. It was a total accident I think the gun itself is a little much for deer he calls it his buffalo gun I like it for killing hogs
Because it doesn't matter where u hit the pig it drops unlike some other rifles like AR15 u have to shoot em in the right place
I bought a Marlin model 1893 --- almost 5 years back.
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WHO ever had it before me, had the barrel shortened and entire piece, nickel plated.
Beautiful rifle and wood finish
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People give me this issue that it's not ORIGINAL with the nickel plating.
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I see things MUCH DIFFERENT than most.
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It was shipped in 1897
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The SAFETY MODEL Black powder - Smokeless powder 38 - 55 cal.
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YOU can see where the top receiver side has wear on it, as if it was being carried on a saddle rig EVERY DAY.
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AND as you said it was extremely expensive back in the day
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So I am thinking it was some wealthy Cattle man ♂️ that ORIGINALLY owned this rifle I now own.
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I have now gotten the bug for COWBOY SHOOTING COMPETITION and intend on using it.
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So reloading is going to be my best option
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Would appreciate what set up you can recommend????
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And what pistol you would use as it's partner for COWBOY COMPETITION SHOOTING???
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IM THINKING ABOUT the Man with No Name model in . 38 caliber ?????
I have one i haven't shot yet.i enjoyed it partner.
Thank you for the nice video
Thanks for checking in
How do you get that speed with 3031 powder. You must fill the case completely and compress it
Naw, it fills the case nicely and can hear it some when shake the case
Thanks dave
Since Henry came out with side gates I a sure thought a wanted one their .38-55. Now I'm leaning towards the .45-70 simply for ammo availability and load options. Anyone load both .38-55 and 45-70?
Had two .45-70 rifles in the past. Nothing wrong with them, just not any grizzly or buffalo where I live; and every mall cowboy has a .45-70 but the .38-55 opens conversations at the range and occasionally on private lands.
depends on what your hunting needs are. If you're going after moose, bear, elk and the larger deers. The 45-70 is the better choice, for smaller deer size game 38-55 with a 255gr and some H322 or H4198 powders are the best choice. Even Rx7 should do the trick. I own both and shoot em according to what I'm after
I load both 3855 and 4570 along with a new 4590 winchester 1886
@@wilmamcdermott3065 On the 38-55 if you are sighted in at 100yrds whats your hold over at 250yrds? Grn weight of the bullet?
I dont shoot that far with it have better guns for that kind of distance.
Enjoyable vid.
Pussy Bullet was my stage name when I was an exotic dance during the great coronavirus lockdown.
I miss the money but i have a tiny bit of dignity that I just wont let go of.
On a serious note I might just have my old pre cross bolt safety Marlin rebored to this cartridge, im not the best shot out there but i think that particular gun may have an issue with its chamber as spent shells look pregnant.
Just something to think about if I can scrape the coin together to get it done.
Thanks for your video, definitely informative.
Thanks for stopping by
Hello! I'm starting to reload for 38-55 and I have a Reproduction
Uberti High Wall, 30" barrel. Are you trimming your cases to 2.085? Are
you using starline Long or short brass? It's a little confusing on which
brass to use Long or short and where to TRIM my brass. I'm going to use
Oregon Trail 240 gn .380 bullet. I bought custom factory ammo recently with a
.380 bullet and my gun loves it so now I want to try and reload for it.
Thanks for you time. Great vid for 38-55. You don't see very many reloading vids on this caliber.
First off I am in the process of editing a 38-55 reloading vid so keep on the look out. It does not address some of your questions because I do not load for a single shot, just a lever gun. I use starline brass and have never had to trim it probably because I don't shoot them past 1890 fps and low pressure. I would recommend you trim them according to the loading manual and if your chamber allows you a different length you will need to measure it and cut your brass to fit. You are entering a loading hobby that will require you to make your measurements to your gun and need be careful getting loading advice from others it might be dangerous in your equipment.
@@BuckskinDave Thank you! I will keep a look out for your video.
@@BuckskinDave Waiting on your reloading video.
@@larrymunninghoff6746 Its on my channel since last Sat
I'm looking at getting a 94 38-55 . I'm wondering what the optimal barrel length is in your opinion? I see Winchester offers 20 and 24 and Uberti offers 20 24 and 26 ? I don't mind having the longer barrel if I will gain velocity I do plan to hunt and I also plan to load black powder and cast my own bullets. Do you think that with black powder I'll gain velocity all the way out to 26 in? Do you have any opinion on the Uberti 94? Thank you for your advice I appreciate it.
I like the 24 myself, wouldn't worry bout the velocity with black powder. I would try to get a Win first, Ubertis are good to tho. Thanks for checking in
@@BuckskinDave I've been kinda leaning towards the Winchester 94 deluxe sporter half octagon half round 24 in. I was thinking I probably wouldn't gain much from the 26 but the big positive with Uberti is it doesn't have the Tang safety and I would like to have a Tang site. I've been told it's still possible to put a tang sight on the Winchester also but I may just go with receiver site too. Thanks
What diameter bullets are you using when casting? I've got a new Winchester Hi Wall on it's way, and i want to shoot cast out of it.
Depends on the barrel you get. the barrel I put on this rifle is a .375, but the originals were actually closer to 38. I am casting 375 bullets. Thanks for dropping in
A young friend recently squired a Marlin Model 1893 in 38-55. It was made in 1894. Anyone have any thoughts on what bullet mold to buy. We shoved a lead plug through the bore. It mics at .3779 inches. Contacted Lyman, and they suggested a mold that casts bullets with a .381 inch diameter. Not to sure about that. We plan to use black powder for loading, because we are not sure if barrel can withstand smokeless powder.
Any help is appreciated.
I would go to a BPCR Forum and see if some of those guys have any suggestions. The old barrels were a bit bigger than the new models. Thanks for stopping by
@@BuckskinDave You are welcome. Thanks for your suggestion
Hello again sir this question doesn’t really pertain to your video, but I just thought I’d ask you anyway with knowledge of amo
I’ve always been a big fan of the 45/70 cartridge and I have a 1895 Marlin (love that lever canon) and I’m looking at getting a Uberti 45/70 Highwall / Sharps
I don’t reload and my question to you sir is
Do you know if I can shoot all of the off the shelf smokeless brand ammunition in the Uberti that I can shoot in my Marlin
Or would I have to stick to black powder loads with certain grains only?
Thanks again for all of your cool videos and knowledge
Cheers 🍻
There r some brands that r really hot, I wud be careful. Check with manufacturer. Thanks for dropping in,
Morelli's Tactical Advantage good to know. That the rifle can handle some hot load and yes I will definitely do some more research.
Thank you for the information 👍🏼
and advice
You never said anything about bullet diameters that you’re using. Using the correct diameter Bullet is essential for accuracy in a 38-55. I have two 38-55s both Winchester. A model 1894 and a model 1885 target rifle. The standard groove diameter in Winchester rifles has always been 379, I don’t know what their new guns are .For my hunting rounds I use .377 diameter Barnes bullets.For target shooting I use .380 diameter lead bullets traveling about 1350 fps which is is a superbly accurate load even out to very large long ranges.
The barrel I used was newer and 375 Dia, original rifles had slightly larger varying diameters. Thanks for stopping by
While you were naming powders that you had tried I was saying 3031 At my phone screen. And when you finally settled on the 250 grain gas check and said 3031! I shouted F**K YA! I guess I have strong feelings for that powder. I load it in my 45-70 and in a short barrel 308. And of coarse in my 30-30 it's the "one"
A good powder doesn't go unnoticed to other shooters. Thanks for dropping in
Question on the Imr 3031 Is it temp. sensitive?
@@dickgoesinya9419 it's WAY less sensitive than ball powders and a hair more sensitive than varget. I worked up a 3031 load for my 308 and once I got it dialed in, the different between 95 degrees on the range and 15 degrees on the mountains does not detectably change my poi at 100 yards.
They don't advertise it is, I have never tested it.
Winchester big bores go back to the early to mid 80's.
@hugostiglitz2388 thanks for stopping in
want one,, but never had one,,,another one i would like is a winchester 95 in 30-40 krag,,
That 95 wud be nice in 405
@@BuckskinDave that would be a good one to get,,
Should also try its sister cartridge 38-56 Winchester 1886 !
All those cartridges from that time are cool and interesting. I would like to have the resources to do them all. Thanks for droppin in
I had a C Sharps rifle in 38-56 and it was fantastic.
I have sure enjoyed the 38-55s that I have shot.
I wud have thought you owned one by now. Thanks for droppin in
I don't know why I even bought one anyway i added it to my lever collection.
Thanks for stopping in
Thanks dude.
Thanks for watching
VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND FACTORY LOADS !!!!!!!!!! 300 SAVAGE, ALSO !!!!!!!!
Yup, roads, hard to find bullets also, u cast mine
Ken waters reload information says 1900
Good luck finding that at Bass Pro
How much are they worth in Canada?
i have no idea. Thanks for dropping in
Just saw a new model 94 in 38-55 for $1630 canadian not sure about ammo
Good choice 3031 powder.
It works well in all these black powder rounds, thanks for stopping by
I'll take two!..
4198 is best at lower pressures. 3031 shines at higher pressures.
Thanks for dropping in
Currently $56.34 USD for 20 pack in Adelaide South Australia July 2022
A guy can still get it some places around here but not very common. Don't know what is cost because I have only shot hand loads. Thanks for stopping by
Hiya Buckskin Dave.
Glad you could stop by
Your very welcome Sir
My 375 win BB 94 was made in 78.
That 375 was a good idea along with the other calibers that came out with it to beef up the 94. Thanks for stopping in.
I use trail boss powder works great
I have some of the donut powder. It fills up the case and is fluffy. Thanks for dropping by.
Here in canada i paid 100 bucks for winchester
Fireformed 30-30 brass works. It is a little shorter than 38-55 but using cast bullets they work well in my Lyman Ideal single shot and my Winnie 94. For a casual shooter the Lee hand loaders work well, no press needed and it just adds to the fun! Most ranges are awash with 30-30 brass and there are lots of people casting lead for the Cowboy shooters, not hard to find at all.
there is no "3831" there is 3031,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
3855 wont fit in 375 to long
Great dependable gun smoke a hogs ass at 100 yards it's my old mans gun he killed 2 deer with 1 shot at 150 yards both deer dropped where they stood. The only downfall is the damn ammo its costly n hard to find
Yup, I cast and load my own. Thanks for dropping in
I see your electrical wiring was probably done by a "red neck".lol!!