Flat -NOT- Bevel Based Lead Bullet Source

[roo_ster]

Howdy:

I've been planning on reloading and finally have all my equipment/books/brass squared away & ready to go.

What I lack is a decent source for FLAT based lead bullets for my .357mag S&W 686 and .44mag Rossi 1892 carbine.

I want to start off with some mild plinking loads (less than 1000fps) in both calibers, preferably SWC (158gr for .357, 240gr for .44). The local shops I have frequented all carry "Rucker" brand cast bullets, which are all cast with a bevel base. From what I have read, I am more likely to have success with mild cast bullet loads using a flat-based bullet when the velocities are lower. (I just cobbled together an electronic foul-out rig to get the lead fouling out of the .44 Rossi 92 & don't want to have to do that again.)

I would prefer to buy locally (DFW, TX), but will order online if need be.

 

[Paul "Fitz" Jones]

Cast your own

The best way to get the bullets you want for the life of your rifle is to use tire weights and a little solder to cast your own. I have converted an 1879 single shot falling block Martini and three 1892 winchesters for my family members to use on the family ranch and have loaded rounds up to 2,000fps and we have nailed dozens of coyotes and crows. I also cast my bullets for my 1892 44-40 Winchester saddle ring carbine.

I shoot bevel base bullets because of having a Star luber but one of my kids has a new flat base mold I could ask him about that he has not used yet.

Fitz

 

[JohnK]

Leadheads and Dry Creek Bullet Works both sell plain flat base as well as bevel base bullets. Look for the Keith designs. Either The 170gr from Dry Creek or the 168gr from Leadheads (same bullet, different alloy) would make an excellent choice for your 357, the 250gr Keiths from either for the 44.

 

[pauli]

and we have nailed dozens of coyotes and crows.

for a moment, i thought that said dozens of coyotes and cows, and i was deeply concerned about your definition of varmint.

(then it dawned on me that i should ask about terminal performance )

 

[roo_ster]

JohnK:

Thanks a lot, that's just waht I was looking for.

 

[LAH]

Let's not forget Cast Performance and Beartooth.

 

[djl4570]

http://www.buffaloarms.com/ offers a variety of cast bullets. They show a couple of plain base bullets in the calibers you're looking for.

I have been very pleased with the bullets I've bought for the 45-70's.

 

[TNrifleman]

Bullets from Beartooth and Leadheads are made in many styles, including flatbase. They are excellent. Haven't tried them yet, but Black Lion Bullets is worth a look.