Substituting lead for fmj in .380

[Star1pup]

The loading data I've found for my .380 all use FMJ or JHP bullets.  I can only use lead in our indoor range.  What trouble can I have if I use the same data with lead?

[Questor]

It's really going to depend on the gun. Feeding might be a problem. However, I believe you will probably be able to work out the problems by adjusting the OAL (overall length) of the cartridge. My recommendation is that you find some round nose bullets of a good weight for the .380. Then make small batches of ammo, adjusting the OAL until you get reliable functioning. The pressures will be lower than the same load firing a jacketed bullet.

[Larry Gibson]

The loading data I've found for my .380 all use FMJ or JHP bullets.  I can only use lead in our indoor range.  What trouble can I have if I use the same data with lead?

Lyman's cast bullet manual lists numerous loads with cast lead bullets for the .380 ACP. I use a Lee 105 gr RN cast bullet over 2.5 gr Bullseye for all .380 pistols as a practice load. It runs 740 fps out of a 2 3/4" barrel AMT and a little more out of longer barrels. Not had any functioning problems and accuracy is as good as it gets depending on pistol. If you don't cast there are numerous commercial casters that provide 90 to 121 gr cast bullets that are appropriate for use in .380s.

Larry Gibson

[dave375hh]

I have used 95gr RN, and a 100gr TC style lead bullets with 3.0gr of Bullseye in my .380's. they shot fine. They were more accurate than FMJ factory loads. My carry load when I carry the Kel-Tec P-3-AT is a max load of B-eye with the 90gr Speer Golddot HP. Most of the newer manuals give LOA recomendations for lead or jacketed bullets.

[Star1pup]

I'm also shooting a Kel-Tec.  In the range I shot some of my buddy's reloads of 2.5 gr Bullseye with a 95 gr. lead bullet.  I guess I'll load somewhat similar.