Laser-Cast Bullets, Part II

[LoneGoose]

I had touched on this subject a while ago. So I bought a box of 500 SWCs to reload .44 Russian and .44 Special. But before I start, there's something nagging me. Loading manuals show bullet diameters of .429 and .430. These Laser-Cast bullets are .431. I shot off an e-mail to Oregon Trail ( the manufacturer) and asked about that. Their reply was "You should be okay". Should??? That's not as definite as I'd like to hear. So I'm posing this question to the THR reloaders who have worked with hard cast bullets, and maybe someone who uses OT's bullets (P.S. - I'm shooting modern revolvers):

Are there any issues with loading these .001" larger bullets? Do I need to swage to the smaller diameter? I don't have swaging equipment and will probably just go back to using plated bullets if this gets to be too complex for my comfort.

 

[PapaG]

What are you shooting them out of? .431 is my go to size for my stainless super Blackhawk and works well in my 44 special flattop. If I could get .432 for my Smith 624, I would.
You might find less leading with lower velocities as the slug won't have to be "bumped up" to obturate and seal the throat/bore.
I had bad leading problems with hard cast .439 bullets even at lower velocities.

 

[FROGO207]

Generally a cast lead bullet is sized .001-.002 larger than it's jacketed or plated brother. If you do size them the same size as plated then expect LOTS of leading in general. I have even purchased a spare expander button that is larger for use with lead bullets. The popular "Cowboy Dies" are made with over sized neck expanders to help with seating/crimping oversized lead bullets so they will not be swaged down. I have a set for 45 Colt reloading.

FWIW Laser cast bullets are a lot harder than most cast bullets and do not "bump up" as well at lead velocities from those I have tried.

 

[Rule3]

I have used their bullets in my SW 629 240 grain. Also use their bullets in my Marlin 30-30

It is better to have them fir tight than loose. Tight is good especially since their alloy is very hard.

You "should be fine"

Seriously the extra .001 is not an issue, they sell a heck of a lot of them so they must work. Heck of a lot better than plated bullets in a 44 Special or Magnum and the guarantee no leading.

 

[LoneGoose]

Thanks, guys. I now have confidence to carry on with my reloading. I'm shooting a S&W 629 and a Uberti "conversion" .44 Special. I have always used jacketed or plated bullets, but the "no leading" guarantee got me hooked.

Once again, I have to say THR is the best forum for getting the straight, good information.

 

[Rule3]

When you are done with their bullets you can switch over to the new Hi Tec coated bullets from MBC or Bayou bullets. cost less and will not lead your barrel.

Nothing wrong with Laser Cast they are good folks and company just cost a bit more.

 

[Walkalong]

If they will fit your throats, they are right, you'll be fine.