What are the pros and cons of using copper jacketed bullets when compared straight lead for .22 LR? I've always used non-jacketed bullets (i.e. lead) in my .22 rifles and handguns. I've read that this can cause leading of the barrel which can be difficult to clean, that is why you use copper jackets. Comments?
Copper or Lead?
- Thread starter Bitumen
- Start date
OccasionallyOnTarget
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- Burnaby, BC
I have a Colt 1911-22 and when I first got it the lead bullets regularly jammed up causing a FTF, while the copper plated bullets never did. Now that the pistol is broken in a bit, the lead bullets seem to work ok.
22lr ammo are not copper jackets it is sipply dipped in a coating not much difference in performance the plated ammo has less wax / grease on it makes it a little cleaner for handling that's about it cheaper to manufacture as well
They are not copper jacketed, they have a wash of copper plating over them to keep from getting black fingers from handling them.
Try lots of different ammo. Buy lots of what shoots the best, whether it's copper plated or bare lead.
Bullet shape (round nose, truncated, or solid vs. hollow point, are more like to make a difference than the miniscule amount of copper that ends up on the outside of a .22 bullet.
Cheers
Trev
