Simplest approach to reloading Keith-style bullet?

[DHart]

For the guy who can't/won't cast his own bullets... and wants the simplest, easiest approach... what's the best ready-made source for a Keith style bullet?

Cast?
Swaged?
Gas check?
Beveled bottom?
Correct hardness?
Pre lubed?

It's all a little confusing to me.

I'm accustomed to reloading jacketed bullets and would like to make up some .357 and .44 special defense loads with Keith style bullets for my short barrel revolvers. I don't want to have to lube them myself (if I don't HAVE to) and I would like to avoid leading in my barrel (if that is avoidable). I understand that a certain hardness is important, but I don't even know what hardness is right or how to tell if the hardness of a bullet I might buy is the proper hardness. I don't understand whether cast or swaged is better or more desireable. If possible, I'd just like someone who has figured all this out to steer me toward the easiest approach posible to reloading my own Keith style bullets.

What brand/source of bullets is the best "go-to" place for the bullets I need? Thanks very much.

 

[grendelbane]

If you refuse to cast your own, you will have to buy some one else's. Most bullet casting outfits are small shops, and due to the expense of shipping bullets, it would be best to find one near your location. I usually purchase cast bullets from a couple of different vendors when I visit gun shows.

Most commercially cast bullets are probably too hard, unless you like to load really hot.

People will argue over what qualifies as a Keith bullet. I would say it is a hard cast semi wadcutter style bullet with a single, square lube groove, no gas check, large meplat, and pronounced shoulder. I probably left out something like a single crimp groove. Most bullet casters will have something closely approximating this.

Elmer would load his over a stout charge of 2400 and start shooting! It is great fun.

 

[RCL]

This guy casts good bullets, Keith style, and may be able to help you out.

http://www.creeker.net/

 

[J.M.]

Robert beat me to it, but take his word - Lynn @ Dry Creek Bullet Works. - JM.

 

[DHart]

Thanks for the suggestions...

 

[BigG]

Keith bullets were heavy for their caliber and featured a full caliber driving band fore of the crimping groove. They therefore look a little weird compared to your classic semi wadcutter load. I would like to try some too, but I don't reload as much as I once did.