Author Topic: Couple of Newb Questions on 44 bullets (Read 517 times)

Jeffery8mm · « **on:** June 09, 2006, 07:19:52 AM »

Bear with me on this:
Is there a difference between cast and lead bullets?
Lets take the Hornady 240gr lead SWC and the Laser Cast 240g SWC,
what would the differences in these 2 be.
I have a 44 revolver and a NEF 44mag.
Thanks
Jeff

Jim 44-40 · « **Reply #1 on:** June 09, 2006, 08:14:33 AM »

The BHN or hardness of the lead is the main difference,and the way they are lubed. LaserCast hard cast,the Hornadys are soft,with a alox like coating on them,and I think they are .430 dia.

dubber123 · « **Reply #2 on:** June 09, 2006, 09:17:31 AM »

Jims pretty much on the money, they are both made of lead, but commercially cast bullets are usually harder than the swaged lead like the Hornadys. Both have their place, but if you are intending on anything other than plinking loads, the hard cast will usually be a better bet than the softer ones which will tend to lead tha bore more if shot at any speed over 800 to 1000fps. in my experience. I cast my own, and shoot some at 1800 fps. with no problems. Again, it's all in what you want to do.

Jeffery8mm · « **Reply #3 on:** June 09, 2006, 09:59:43 AM »

Thanks dubber!!
What I want is kinda a dual purpose load for the 7' revolver,and the NEF rifle, both in 44 mag. I dont want to have to have 2 loads to use in each one. I want a good, economical load that is easy on the hands in the revolver and that might take a Mississippi whitetail at a range of 0 to 75 yards in the rifle!
What do yall suggest??

Jeff

Nobade · « **Reply #4 on:** June 09, 2006, 05:19:33 PM »

I'd recommend measuring your revolver's cylinder throats and you rifle's groove diameter. Hopefully they are sorta close to the same. Use Lyman #429421 or something similar sized to fit whichever firearm is bigger (a little big won't hurt. A little small is terrible.) Cast out of water quenched wheelweights with a pinch of tin added, lubed with 50/50, and loaded over your choice of powder to 1000 fps in the revolver (will go faster in the rifle) and you're set to tackle whatever comes your way with either firearm.