Bunk,
I've been inadvertanyly reloading 777 wrong for about as long as the powder has been around. I use the 3F exclusively in 357 and 38SPL but all my 38SPL shooting has been in .357s. YMMV. I like how the 3F stuff meters. If you are shooting 124gr bullets you would need 15 grs 777 to be at the bullet base with a normal COAL for the 38s. It is a "snappy" load but just fine unless you are in a competitive SASS match. Then I would load 13 grs powder and have a small bit of space under the bulle for a less recoiling load. The 777 loads are still way below what a full smokeless load pressure would be.

I also use 3F 777 in modest 12ga shotgun loads for Cowboy Action matches.

With a 20" barrel I have found no need for lube cookies under the bullet.

I am shooting up the last of my vintage Black Dawg Cartridge Co 357s and 38 specials. Neither of which are using lube cookies or Big Lube bullets.

When I had a 92 with a 24" barrel those same cartridges ran out of lube at the 21.5" mark. A wet patch between stages was all I needed to keep it going.

Getting closer, Riley is hearing the thunder and told me, he has really taken getting aq real job seriously.

I didn't win the Ruger, it was a swap.

Coffinmaker(onewurd),
I know this is a rather personal question... but, what is your barrel length?

You too Abilene...

~Mako