Lead Bullet Sizing For Revolvers

[GeoDudeFlorida]

I wasn't using them for measuring throats. And I understand why you say they're useless for it. I was using them to measure the various projectiles I have that either will or will not quite fit the throats.

Although, I may see if the little machine shop at work has something more appropriate for measuring the throats. Either way, I don't plan to have any work done to the guns I have. They seem to shoot fine.

All I was really wondering is, if a bullet is .0005 - .001" too large for the throats, whether it would cause notably higher chamber pressures. But perhaps that just not commonly available knowledge.

I think you missed it but the answer was given several times: the bullet must be at least 0.001” larger than the throats of each chamber for a proper fit. You are not in danger of over pressure, you are riding the edge gas cutting your bullets and chambers. Get a bullet at least 0.001-0.002” OVER throat diameter for a good fit.

 

[mdi]

Doubtful is any significant increase in pressure would result from bullets being larger than cylinder throat diameter, as long as they chamber. Way back when I fired some .360" bullets in my 357 M but the rounds barely fit the chamber. IIRC the over throat diameter bullets were clean shooting, but I got lead "spray" on the frame and forcing cone form the bullets being swaged on firing.

FWIW a bullet that is .001" larger has only .0005" greater "interference fit", and a .003" larger bullet is only .0015" more interference fit. Not much

 

[reddog81]

.001 isn’t going to cause any pressure issues. .001 to .002 over throat diameter is what is recommended. There are millions of people shooting lead bullets every year .001 or more over throat diameter. Lead alloys used for bullets are relatively soft and size down easily.

 

[243winxb]

.001 to .002 over throat diameter is what is recommended.

By who? If i may ask.

357 Magnum cartridge.

The SAAMI drawing lists a bullet maximum diameter of .359" -.003"

The chamber drawing has a chamber throat of .358" + .004"

So yes, a bullet may get lucky & be .001" larger then the throat.

My homecast have a clearance of at least .001" or more.

 

[reddog81]

By who? If i may ask.

Anyone shooting for accuracy or to prevent leading with the use of lead bullets.

 

[Walkalong]

Well both of course.

 

[WrongHanded]

Hey guys, thanks for the info! I'll stop worry now and just get on with shooting.

 

[GeoDudeFlorida]

Hey guys, thanks for the info! I'll stop worry now and just get on with shooting.

Great idea! And let us know how it goes.