Author Topic: Using Cast Bullets for the .50 Beowulf  (Read 1100 times)

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Offline smdavis

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Using Cast Bullets for the .50 Beowulf
« on: March 26, 2004, 04:48:38 AM »
My 50 Beowulf is the most fun you can have in the half-inch format. I want to extend that considerable capability by adding cast bullets to the mix of available terminal toys.

My vision is: a .50 caliber cast bullet weighing between 600 and 650 grains, muzzle velocity 1000 fps - 1100 fps, no gas check, no lead or other fouling to contaminate the gas operated AR-15 system. I will gladly share this and doubtlessly Dan over at Mountain  Molds will carve one right out. My barrel length 16" with 1:19 twist ratio.

Problem 1 - The Beowulf is a gas-operated semi-auto, how can we minimize systemic fouling through bullet design. I am willing to do a "clean sheet" new design but I want the opinion of the "conscious".

Problem 2 - OAL fixed and nose length .475 to .5 establishes limited powder volume that might make a super clean powder selection difficult.

Any ideas based on the limitations of the .50 Beowulf in a gas operated system would be appreciated and strongly considered during this design phase. Thanks in advance.

Offline Veral

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Using Cast Bullets for the .50 Beowulf
« Reply #1 on: April 11, 2004, 07:13:20 PM »
I always reccomend GC's with gas operated actions, to minimize or prevent any lead buildup in the mechanism.

If you are going to another mold maker,  Dan at Mountain molds, the design will be up to him and what he'll make for you.  If you intend to order from LBT, my reccomendation is given above, or if you still want to try plainbase, I'll design the lubrication to minimize leading.  I would definately reccomend one of the LBT lubricants, especially if you want to try plain base.  Most other lubes I've tried smear a film of lead which is rough on gas systems at far lower velocities/pressures than with LBT lubes.
Veral Smith