500 S&W Mag Hardcast Loads

[Big Bore Reloader]

Hi All, I am a new member and first-time poster looking for a little guidance. To date, I have been loading multiple calibers but all using jacketed projectiles. I am now turning my attention to Hardcast bullets. While general guidance is also welcome, I was specifically looking to load some 500 Grain Hardcast (component details below). Hodgdon shows some jacketed loads (500 GR. HDY SP) using a start/max load of 30gr. & 32.2gr of IMR4227, respectively. My question for you is, am I generally safe starting at the lower or would you recommend even reducing that further? And, would your answer change if I used hi-tek coated vs. just lubed projectiles? Is there a general guide to safely follow in comparing vs. similar Jacked Load Data? Thanks in advance for sharing your knowledge!

- Gas Checked (WFP/GC) with Cannelures - (Would be purchasing, not self casting).
- IMR4227
- Starline brass
- Winchester Large Rifle Magnum Primers

 

[Shooterbob]

Big Bore try cast boolits there are quite a few shooting cast in the 500 over there also if you are going to shoot cast get the Lyman cast bullet handbook it’s worth it

 

[Shooterbob]

I just looked at the Lyman cast book no 500 gr bullets . There is a 440 gas check lee bullet with Imr 4227 listed at 31.5 gr to 35 gr

 

[Shooterbob]

Start at the starting load on Hodgdon site for the jacketed bullet and work up till accuracy. I do that with other calibers with success. But be sure to check out cast boll it’s lots of smart cookies over there when it comes to cast good luck :

 

[Big Bore Reloader]

Thanks for the recommendation, Shooterbob. Just registered.

 

[Shooterbob]

Sure thing

 

[memtb]

Good luck in your quest! I would certainly love to help you.....but, can only be envious! I’ve been diligently searching for some 4227, to push some 400 grainers out of my 460 XVR. It’s supposed to be quite accurate and I should gain about 100 fps over my WW296! I may never know!

As previously mentioned....the Cast Boolit forum is a great source of cast bullet information! Be forewarned.....you may get an irresistible urge to start casting your own! memtb