Author Topic: How do I determine the true caliber of my gun (Read 458 times)

steelersfan · « **on:** August 22, 2004, 11:39:59 AM »

I have a 38-55 and want to buy cast bullets for it. I heard that I could push a sinker though the bore but that doesn't sound feasable? Do you have to soften it first? Isn't there a way to use calipers to do that.

New Hampshire · « **Reply #1 on:** August 22, 2004, 11:46:53 AM »

What you want to do is called "slugging" your bbl. You can buy kits for it. But your not too far off with the lead sinker deal (make sure its pure lead for ease of use.) You tap it through your bbl with a wooden dowl then measure your land and groove diameter.
Brian M.

steelersfan · « **Reply #2 on:** August 22, 2004, 12:06:38 PM »

Do you have to really pound it in? What is the name of the kit? I'd like to order the kit.

Flash · « **Reply #3 on:** August 22, 2004, 05:34:42 PM »

I believe you'll be "Splitting Hairs" by slugging the bore of your gun. A 38/55 will have variations in grove diameter from one manufacturer to another. A Lyman mould for a 375 Winchester or any commercial manufactured cast bullets for the 375 Winchester will do fine, unless it's pin point accuracy you're after. Then, you'll have to be concerned about weight variations once you get the grove diameter dialed in. Load them on the light side if it's an older gun and work up slowly.

Rick Teal · « **Reply #4 on:** August 23, 2004, 03:21:11 PM »

I believe the 38/55 was "supposed" to shoot .378 bullets. Reality might be something different.

New Hampshire · « **Reply #5 on:** August 23, 2004, 03:55:34 PM »

Quote from: steelersfan

Do you have to really pound it in? What is the name of the kit? I'd like to order the kit.

This is it:

http://www.midwayusa.com/rewriteaproduct/259953

Best of luck.
Brian M.