i have bullseye for lead light loads. but i am looking for something for 125gr XTP out of my marlin 1894. please make suggestions.

Trail Boss powder, and use only 357 cases (using 38sp will require chamber cleanings after).

Hodgdon HS-6, Hodgdon CFE Pistol, Winchester AutoComp, Hodgdon Universal, Winchester 231, Hodgdon HP-38, IMR PB, Hodgdon Titegroup, IMR 700-X, Hodgdon Clays

All of the above would work fine, and this is only Hodgdon, Win and IMR powder. I'd lean towards Tite Group. Picking a powder for the 38 special has TONS of options. It's one of the most versatile rounds to shoot with many good powders to use. Any pistol powder will work. Trail Boss may be a good one, but finding this powder is near impossible. I'd stick to one's you can get easily.

If you want to get performance, i.e. velocity, use 357 brass and a magnum pistol powder like H110. You should be able to get 2,300 fps and that would be a mean little dude.

Kyle, share you .38 bullseye match loads with me....please?

As stated use .357 cases and W296/H110 or 2400 for magnum loads. 125gr is undersize for both the .38 and the .357. You ought to be able to get it moving well with any of the faster lighter load powders mentioned.

Dewc 2.8 bullseye
Or
158 semi wc and 3.1 bullseye

Both shoot very well

I use Unique with 140's in my 357 handgun.

In the strong Marlin action, you can use 38 brass and fill 2400 powder to the bottom of the bullet. Designate this ammo for your rifle only as to not be used in handguns.

I'd put that load in a Blackhawk before a Marlin but I agree on the use of 2400.

I stopped loading 38's to save hassle. I load a lot of 158 with the powders mentioned, that's the fun part having all those choices! I have ALOT of the old Unique powder from when I loaded for skeet shooting. When I say old I mean it's like shooting black powder! I like 2400 and Titegroup for the 357.

H110/win296.

I have used Unique for for almost 30 years in light/lead target loads in 38/357.

+1. Unique would be better for light loads.