Can I use lead round-nose bullets in a lever action?

[Mr. Buttons]

I should know this, but I guess I need to double check.

Can I safely use lead round-nose bullets in a lever action (Model '92, 158gr, 38 special) or may this set off primers in the mag tube? I usually use semi-wad cutters, but I have a box of round nose lead bullets waiting to be used up.

Yes, I know I can't use pointy spire FMJs, but just want to know if I was limited to flat nose (semi-wad cutter) type bullet if shooting lead.

I'm going to load a mess of these up, so just wanted to double check.

Thanks in advance

 

[Garlond]

There is no hard and fast rule...you could probably spend a great deal of time sitting on the couch hitting two bullets together to see if it would happen...but I think you'd be pretty safe. the number of times I've had light primer strikes with no ignition makes me think that the huge surface area of a RN bullet poses little risk.

 

[mlehtovaara]

I wouldn't hesitate to do so. I agree with Garlord that it takes a pretty solid strike to set off a primer.

 

[surfer365]

I reload 44 mag 240 grn SWC and RN lead bullets and have no problem in my marlin lever.