Enfield revolver over pressure

[Baal]

I took my 1931 Enfield No2 Mk1 revolver to the range today. I had loaded 50 rounds with 200 grain cast lead bullets over 1.7 grains of Unique powder. That's the suggested starting load in my Lyman reloading manual for a 195 grain lead alloy bullet. And this site (http://www.handloads.com/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=38%20SqqqW&Weight=All&type=Han dgun&Source=) suggests starting at 2.4 grains. So I figured 1.7 was light if anything.

As as it turns out, I only fired 6 of the 50 rounds. Nice tight group at 10 yards, fired single action, one handed.

Overpressure!

My first thought was the spring in the cylinder had broken when I broke the revolver open and the ejector didn't move. But nope, it's fine. I had to remove the cylinder and use a screwdriver to push the brass out. I'm guessing, 30 or 40 pounds pressure required to push the brass free. Examining it, the heads and primers show definite flattening and the brass wall is bulged.

As as soon as I get the chance I'll pull the other 44 bullets. I'm certain I used 1.7 grains as I only have a single stage press and always weigh out each individual charge. I'll confirm that though.

I have a full pound of Unique and maybe a half pound of Herco. And most of a pound of Trail Boss. I'm thinking 1.4 or 1.5 grains of Unique. But will have to see if I can find loads for those other 2 powders too.

Anybody have any pet loads they care to share?

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