Handgun Shot Shells
 

I have been wondering about using shotshells in my revolvers. Specifically .38, .357 and .44 mag. Is there any risk of damage to the rifling use these shells?

CCI makes some specifically for those calibers. Those will not. Hand loads, it depends on what you use for shot.

From what i understand is that shotshells tend to lead up barrels, but I've only heard this and have no experience.

I don't think You'll run much of a risk of damaging anything, but i would go and fire hundred of rounds through it either.

personally, I'll never shoot any kind of shotshell through anything other than a shotgun.

They make sense for snake country. I'd just expect a dirtier gun.

No, shotshells will not lead or damage your handgun barrel. The shot is incapsulated in a plastic capsule. I live in the desert and have been loading .38 and .44 shotshells for my revolvers for over 40 years for snake and rodent control. I have even dispatched rabbits at 25 feet in the yard and garden in the past, using the .44. I keep .38 shotshells in my Mod. 10 snubby during the spring and summer when working outside or walking in the desert.

Jim.......

As Jim said- That shot loads will hurt your gun is an old urban legend. However, DO expect limited usefull range. Rifling imparts a spin, which will result in the shot pattern opening up, and n severe cases, giving you a "doughnut" shot pattern. Thomspon Center actually had a reverse rifling muzzle choke to STOP rotation for shot loads. Have carried 45 shot loads for snakes for years. Do not expect shot loads to cycle autoloaders.