Trying to figure out initial charge for cast bullet.

[juststarting]

Hi All

So I pulled the trigger so to speak on 44MAG bullet mould, along with few other bits and pieces.

This, if anyone is interested: http://westernfirearms.com.au/reloading-supplies-moulds-casting-pistol-moulds-lee-2-cavity-bullet-mold-429-diameter-240-grain-semi-wadcutter-p-2278.html.

Loading factory projectile is more or less straightforward now, look up the pill, cross reference and work up the load for calibers I am familiar with... But I am not sure how to determine a good starting load for a cast projectile? I’ll be using AR2205. I had few people suggest some loads, but I am interested in the actual thought process. How does one determine a good safe starting point?

Do I just look at similar weight projectiles and go from there? Or is there more to it?


Thanks

[bladeracer]

Hi All

So I pulled the trigger so to speak on 44MAG bullet mould, along with few other bits and pieces.

This, if anyone is interested: http://westernfirearms.com.au/reloading-supplies-moulds-casting-pistol-moulds-lee-2-cavity-bullet-mold-429-diameter-240-grain-semi-wadcutter-p-2278.html.

Loading factory projectile is more or less straightforward now, look up the pill, cross reference and work up the load for calibers I am familiar with... But I am not sure how to determine a good starting load for a cast projectile? I’ll be using AR2205. I had few people suggest some loads, but I am interested in the actual thought process. How does one determine a good safe starting point?

Do I just look at similar weight projectiles and go from there? Or is there more to it?


Thanks

I take a guess at what load should make around 1500fps and see how it shoots and what velocity it makes. Then work up or down from there. If you want to push them at maximum velocities then use similar weight jacketed loads.
I'm shooting cast in 8x57mm, 7.62x54R, .303, 7mm-08 and am awaiting moulds for 6.5mm and .243. I'm also hand reaming a bullet sizing die so I can size 7mm cast down to .270" for the Carcano.
Be sure to check the diameter of the thrown bullets.

[reloader762]

44 Mg. loads using AR2205,the 240 gr. LSWC is mentioned.

http://www.adi-powders.com.au/handloade ... ton+Magnum

[juststarting]

Thanks, reloader762. I must admit I haven't looked yet, casting equipment is still in the mail. For some reason I just thought it wouldn't be in there

[juststarting]

Kinda excited I must admit, something new to play with.

[Gaz52]

For anyone delving into cast bullets I would recommend Richard Lee's "Modern Reloading " as a usefull reference book. Buying a bullet mold before "slugging " the bore to get an accurate measurement of the barrel lands diameter is a waste of time and money. IMHO. Buy the book , more usefull info than another reloading manual I own .