Handgun loads for cast vs jacketed

Grizzlypeg

Grizzlypeg

CGN Ultra frequent flyer
Rating - 100%
80   0   0
Location
Winnipeg
Can published loading data for jacketed bullets be used for cast bullets? Is the only issue velocity and leading? Or do you have to worry about pressure differences when using cast instead of jacketed?
 
Generally, if you use the same weight of bullet and the same charge the cast load will produce less pressure and possibly more velocity, due to far less bore resistance. That is why Lyman shows heavier loads and higher velocity for cast loads. Most other manuals don't show this because they want you to buy their jacketed bullets, so they try to show their jacketed bullets in the best light. This is true in handguns and bigbore loadings where cast loads outperform jacketed.
 
Thanks, lower pressure and higher velocity sounds good to me. I'm not trying to push the limits, just target loads, and the data I found for 40S&W using Accurate #2 listed fmj and jhp's, not cast. I'm looking for a use for a pound of Accurate #2 I've had sitting on the shelf for a couple of decades. Probably good for some 38spl as well.
 
ben hunchak said:
Generally, if you use the same weight of bullet and the same charge the cast load will produce less pressure and possibly more velocity, due to far less bore resistance. That is why Lyman shows heavier loads and higher velocity for cast loads. Most other manuals don't show this because they want you to buy their jacketed bullets, so they try to show their jacketed bullets in the best light. This is true in handguns and bigbore loadings where cast loads outperform jacketed.
Click to expand...

:pirate: Sorry for the hijack. Would this apply to electroplated bullets also ?
 
plated bullets are nice and clean to handle, feed well thru automated loading equipment and are much less costly then FMJ. They also shoot very clean in a revolver, not leaving any lead deposits at muzzle or cylinder face/side. Plus they are shiny! Load them like cast bullets. Cast bullets do offer less bore resistance, being less resistive then Jacket material, but they also react to base pressure more, and can cause some pressure issues that way if overloaded, but you'll probably get stupid heavy leading before thats an issue.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom