Swaging question on lead cores.

[ernierod]

I am new to swaging and I would like to make .45 SWC bullets in the weight range of 190 to 200grs.Can I get a mould to produce a similar shaped (SWC) bullet,using lead,with a diameter of .401 to .430-in the weight range of 190 to 200grs-and use this bullet as a core for my 45cal swaging dies??  It seems these dies are easier to get rather than an adj core mould to produce these cores.Thanks for help. Erod

[talon]

 Yes. However, be sure to cast only pure lead and have the bullet at least 10 to 15 or more grains more than the bullet that you want to drop out of your swage die.

[ernierod]

Thanks for info. Why do you need 10-15 grs over target weight?? Is 3/5 grs sufficient??Explain?? Erod

[iiranger]

 It seems these dies are easier to get rather than an adj core mould to produce these cores.Thanks for help. Erod
[/quote]

Cute. If you like, you can make your own "core mold" by just drilling holes in about anything. Hard wood works, but stinks from the burning of the hot lead. Plaster of Paris works great. If you drill the holes carefully and just slightly taper them, turn the mold over and the slugs will drop out. Aluminum tube can work. Lead will not stick to aluminum.

So most "makers" are not going to waste alot of time on something that won't sell that well. Corbin has them. I am sure Richard can make them if he don't stock them (rceco.com). CH4D.com should have something that works. So it is just how much you want to spend or save. luck

[talon]

Concerning making 'over weight cores': if you use LSWC type swage dies, such as the ones RCE or Corbins Co makes, the smaller diameter bullets you plan to use for cores will very easily bleed off those extra grains as the core fills the die cavity to attain the weight you want. Sometimes it takes 10-20 grains of this extra core weight to allow complete filling of the die cavity as the core material starts flowing out of the relief holes of the die before all of the cavity is filled. A lot depends upon the design of the bullet you're making.  If you use dies made without bleed holes, or very small bleed holes (such as those from CH/4D), then you'll have to use cores having the exact weight you want your finished bullet to be. In this type of mold it may be difficult to get a well formed bullet if you use a smaller lead bullet as a core as, rather than flowing, the core is only compressed.

[ernierod]

Many thanks guys.Am presently getting my stuff together-core cutter,lead dies etc. Am using, as a start,big boss press,C-H 45 SWC swaging dies,C-H,core cutter,DC knurling tool.Trying to find wire lead .430 diameter.Was talking to RC today and he said my idea will work but I think I will hold out for a adj core die.Tnx again for advice.Ernierod

[GREYGHOSTt]

ch should have the lead wire also..