Thirties
Member
I will load for .38 spl revolvers), and 9x18 pistols. I am new to reloading, so please excuse this beginner's question. I did a search here for "gas check", but no references explain what it is, and when one would use or not use it.
My understanding is a gas check is a physical object, loaded at the base of a bullet, for the purpose of preventing hot gas (flame?) from melting the "skin" of a lead bullet on ignition. Is there a more complete description?
If that is what it is, my second question is when to use, or not to use a gas check? My third: which bullets are gas check designs (saw one reference to this in a message)?
For my .38 specials I plan on loading 148 grain hollow base wadcutters, and 158 grain flat base semi wadcutters, both commercially made (I'll not be home-casting my lead).
For my 9x18 Makarovs, I plan to load 96 grain flat base semi wadcutters (cast by makarov.com). I loaded some 9x18 LSWC for the first time yesterday, but did not use gas checks (don't have any).
Let me add that in my loadings of both calibers, I will be going for accuracy and less noise, not high speed.
When using a full metal jacket bullet (lead at bottom uncovered), are gas checks never used? And what about plated lead round nose bullets?
Thanks...
My understanding is a gas check is a physical object, loaded at the base of a bullet, for the purpose of preventing hot gas (flame?) from melting the "skin" of a lead bullet on ignition. Is there a more complete description?
If that is what it is, my second question is when to use, or not to use a gas check? My third: which bullets are gas check designs (saw one reference to this in a message)?
For my .38 specials I plan on loading 148 grain hollow base wadcutters, and 158 grain flat base semi wadcutters, both commercially made (I'll not be home-casting my lead).
For my 9x18 Makarovs, I plan to load 96 grain flat base semi wadcutters (cast by makarov.com). I loaded some 9x18 LSWC for the first time yesterday, but did not use gas checks (don't have any).
Let me add that in my loadings of both calibers, I will be going for accuracy and less noise, not high speed.
When using a full metal jacket bullet (lead at bottom uncovered), are gas checks never used? And what about plated lead round nose bullets?
Thanks...