What's a good mould for .44-40 used in a rifle?
- Thread starter 41 Colt
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Most molds made for the .44/40 drop a bullet that is .427" or .428" max., and too small for most .44 mags, however bullet weight for the .44/40 is normally 200-210 grs....My Lyman #427666 drops at .429", hopefully your 1885 will fall within these "normal" sizes and you can use one of the molds designed for the .44/40.
I also use the Lee 200 grain mold, (the .427 one). It is a plain base and is easy to use. I use them in my SA and have just started with a rifle. They drop out at about .430 if you keep the mold nice and warm. It is a very low cost item so if you try it and don't like it you haven't lost much.
Thanks for the responces. I'll slug my rifle's bore before I buy a mould.
Another question, if a mould is listed as 'nominal .429"' does that mean it will be a bit smaller? And for cast lead bullets I want them over the groove diameter by .001-.002" correct?
Another question, if a mould is listed as 'nominal .429"' does that mean it will be a bit smaller? And for cast lead bullets I want them over the groove diameter by .001-.002" correct?
To me that means "thats the widest it can be" dropped from the mold, without using foil to open them up a thou. or two....and, yes, you want them .001 or .002" over bore size, just remember they still have to chamber when reloaded, regardless of the bore...Ben
Well it's still not a problem, you'll just have to find a 200gr. mold meant for the .44 Mag., some of them however don't drop them that big. If money isn't the main concern, I would contact Veral Smith at LBT or the folks at Mountain Molds, they will make you a short nose, 432 or bigger, 200 gr. bullet with a plain base...i think the nose must be short or it won't feed, that is where alot of .44 mg. molds won't work for you....Ben
PS: Another guy that really knows molds is the fellow at CBE, it's an Aussie oufit but i think the exchange is favorable right now, all these guys are experts and very helpful.
You may also want to check out #### Dastardly's excellent "big lube" bullets, esp. if you plan on using Black Powder, I am playing with a 400gr. "Big Lube' in the 45/70 and it's a real winner w/Black Powder.
PS: Another guy that really knows molds is the fellow at CBE, it's an Aussie oufit but i think the exchange is favorable right now, all these guys are experts and very helpful.
You may also want to check out #### Dastardly's excellent "big lube" bullets, esp. if you plan on using Black Powder, I am playing with a 400gr. "Big Lube' in the 45/70 and it's a real winner w/Black Powder.
