To see if damaged bases affected accuracy, I took a box of 18 Hoch bullets for the 32/35 Maynard, and made one file pass across the bases at about 45 degrees. This filed a flat defect on the bases, readily seen.
I shot them 2/23/05 at Trail Glades Range in Miami.
Hoch 165 grain bullets, perfect bases vs. bases filed one stroke at about 45 degrees = damaged bases. 12/IMR 4227, Rem 2 1/2, breech seated, multiple cases, Model 1882 Maynard No. 16 in 32/35, Iron Sights, Hot and plenty of mirage. 100 yards, 5-shot group with perfect base bullets, then 5-shot group with damaged base bullets-alternating for 3 groups each.
Group Sizes:
Perfect bases: 2.15", 2.20", 2.675" Avg 2.508".
Damaged Bases: 1.2", 2.975", 2.025" Avg. 2.067"
On a good day, with one case and going carefully, this rifle has made many groups under an inch, probably averaging about 1 1/2 inches. The Irons are harder to see than ever.
This test proves, if anything, that bullets with damaged bases do not shoot wildly.
I have pictures of the filed base bullets, and 2 samples left.
Next week I'm going to try a C. Sharps 45/70, breech seated, with a scope. I'll damage some bullet bases again, probably with a file.
joeb33050@yahoo
