[Milkmaster]

I am posting this on the general board because it involves a both black powder and reloading skills. Bear it please...

HELP!
I am hand building a bullet starter for my BP shooting needs (check the picture) out of a wooden bed knob and dowel rod. I plan to stain and finish the unit in a pleasing shade similar to my BP weapons. Here lies my delimna...
I want to use a primerless empty brass cartridge as the end for my bullet starter. The hole where the primer usually goes would be the place for the bullet or ball to sit while being pushed down the bore. I would fit the end of the dowel rod into whatever the inside of the cartridge would allow. I need help from some of you reloaders out there to tell me what cartridge would likely suit best for my needs. The tail end would have to go down a 50 caliber weapon of course. I would like the inside of the cartridge to accept the largest dowl possible for strength. Hopefully at least a 7/16" dowel rod. Please give me nominal dimensions for the cartridge you suggest or at least point me to a chart to find out myself. Many thanks for any help offered.

[Car Knocker]

Well, in a handgun cartridge, the .40S&W has an exterior diameter of .424" and an internal diameter (at the mouth) of .405". The .45ACP has an external diameter of .480" and an internal diameter (at the mouth) of .452". The case walls thicken towards the base of the case, so it will be necessary to taper the dowel slightly.

Other case dimensions may be found here: http://stevespages.com/page8d.htm

[Milkmaster]

Thanks! I knew someone would know! Looks like 45ACP might be the easiest to come by for my needs.