[rWt]

I plan to learn how to handload for my 45 Colt revolvers (standard pressure types).

Thus, I want to purchase Keith-style cast bullets in the 250-285 grain range. The one I know I want to try for sure is the RCBS-45-270-SAA bullet. There appear to be at least 2 companies making that particular bullet: Montana Bullet Co. and Baldy's, in Cody Wyoming. Do I care what they are cast from? How would you all go about selecting which bullet to purchase?

Thanks!

[twice barrel]

Buy a few from each and see if your gun cares, then stock up if it especially prefers one over the other or keep shopping if none of them satisfy you.

Heck, even when I cast them myself from same mold, same batch of alloy some nights they just dropped gorgeous and others either frosty or wrinkled and no matter what you did some just had to be remelted and cast when you were "hold'n yer mouth right".

When your molds are running good its good to keep running,

:D

[warnerwh]

It definitely matters what hardness your bullets are. For low pressure loads a BHN of 12 would probably be fine. A magnum handgun load would require a much harder bullet. You can call a bullet maker like Missouri and they will know what would be best for you and even make a special batch for no extra cost I believe.

[cmgred]

Check out the information Brad provides from Missouri Bullet Co. I think Lymans has book on the subject as well.

[rfwobbly]

Definitely shot a few before buying volume.

Don't ask me how I know this. :cuss:

[rWt]

Thanks everyone!!

[Landric]

http://www.missouribullet.com/details.php?prodId=115&category=5&secondary=14&keywords=

Can't beat MO Bullet!

[ljnowell]

I would like to put a second out there for Missouri Bullet. They have the best product and prices in cast bullets. Give Brad a chance.

[ArchAngelCD]

I agree with the above advice. At standard .45 Colt pressures and velocities you don't want bullets which are too hard. They will lead your barrel as fast or faster than bullets which are too soft. For the .45 Colt a BHN of 10-12 will be ideal IMO. Even though Cowboy velocities are ~700 fps those bullets cab be safely driven to 1,000 fps before you will have any leading concerns. (or even more with the right lube) I normally push a 255gr LSWC bullet in a .45 Colt to 900 fps for a working load and never have a leading problem with bullets no harder than a BHN of 12.

[Bula]

RWT, I checked that link on the "Keith" bullet from Missouri Bullets, that is definately not the same as the RCBS 45-270. I don't particularly care for that pretty steep bevel. I cast my own from that mold, and they are awesome. Look for a true plain base Keith and don't worry so much about hardness. Even cast soft, at standard 45 colt pressures, if sized right, leading will be of no concern.

[rcmodel]

The Dave Scovill designed RCBS-45-270-SAA bullet is definately worth seeking out for the .45 Colt.

And yes, it is not the same thing as the bevel-base bullets being offered by many commercial bullet casters.

Also good advice on finding out the alloy hardness used by Montana Bullet Co. and Baldy's. You don't want hard ones intended for "Ruger Only" level loads if you intend to load them to standard .45 Colt pressure.
For that use, soft is best.

rc