@DisabilityFraudKJW Yes! Lead anything except car battery lead. The calcium makes a deadly gas. The BEST (IMHO) mold is the Lyman 429421 mold and push them at 1200f/s and that's Elmer's load.
@gsho2915 I had bought a ton of bullets in 91'99' time period. I mean tens of thousands. Got em cheap. Anymore these days a loaded round will cost anywhere from 25cents to well over a dollar a round depending on what it is you're buying. I can load a box of fifty 45ACP for leaa than $2 and a box of twenty 308s for around the same...probably less. Cast is a great way to shoot more for a lot less. I can knock the rams down at 500m with my 308 and a 200gr cast bullet from my Fulton Garand.
@LordMoxas As far as 38/357 a (mm mold or and 38/357 mold works. The cast a little over sized so when you lube and size them you get the diameter you want. For 40 you can use any mold for 40/10mm/38-40 the 38-40 has a diameter of .400. I use a 240gr bullet in my 10mm. 45 you have usually two diameters to deal with .452" and .454" for handguns and 458-.460 for rifles. It's about sizing is key. Slug your barrel and size your bullets to .001" over your bore diameter.
I can't wait to get into this some more. I'll cast up a storm!! $60 for a box of 500 cast bullets? I say NAY. what are your thoughts on the tumble lube style bullets that Lee molds can yield? I'm on the fence between the tumble lube .44 mag mold and the traditional SWC style mold.
is there a way to cast hollow point jacketed lead filled bullets for hunting or steel/copper fmj for m1 garand or other competition shooting? i realy want to get into this but i like to keep my ammo consistent with recretionl shootn, target practice, hunting, and competition shooting. i would love to shoot my own steel or copper bullets through my k31.
@ammosmith no i asked that because those holes are like perfect circle on the second target. normally the paper it torn a little like the first target. im not doubting you or anything. oh and i meant after the fact
@ammosmith My idea is to pour tungsten bird shot into the cast and then pour in the lead, tin, bismuth or any other binding metal, thus creating a "vicious frangible nasty bullet"
this may sound silly, but where is the jacket thing? the copper cover things, how do u load it in ur magazine, without the jacket? i wanna know how to make 9mm's
I'm curious how you are able to load so cheaply? Even with free projectiles.... My .223 costs almost $0.077 per round just for powder/primers. You are pulling 1/2 that. What's the secret?? I am ordering in bulk from PV...
@FLATblacktical Primers are about 2 cents each for me (I have a plentiful supply) and the powder charge is about 5 cents for a .223 round and then free projectiles and range pickup brass.
If you fill the cast up half way (and wait for it to solidify) and then pour in the the rest, would it somehow make the bullet more likely to fragment during shooting?
What if you filled up 1/3, 2/3 and then 3/3? Would you get a bullet that fragments into 3 pieces because the metal cooled off in 3 different segments?
does this mean that the mass of the bullet is irrelevant? and only the amount of gun powder determines the velocity? Even if the polymer bullet is lighter?
Can you put small tungsten darts instide the cast and pour in bismuth and lead crating a tungsten/frangible bullet? Will Bismuth bond with the tungsten?
@762full Tin and zinc both work but have limitations. Tin is hard and light and so is zinc. If you cast zinc use a steel mold. Zinc is very hot and can warp an aluminum mold.
The load I used didn't cycle but I am going to use a different powder and that should take care of it. I am limited to about 2400 f/s otherwise accuracy is nil and leading becomes a real problem.
No they did not. I am going to use them in my 22 Hornet. I am swaging bullets for the AR15 now out of empty 22 brass. I am still working on a load that cycles. Time is something I have little of these days.
They do use gas checks anyway but still limited to about 2000 f/s. I am experimenting with driving bands too. The Wilks gas check design. I am pushing a 30 caliber 180gr bullet at 2550 with no leading and impressive accuracy.
Nope. It's soft steel. If that were the case then the steel jacketed wolf ammo would destroy rifles. Barrel steel is generally made from 4140 ordinance steel and heat treated so it's very hard but not brittle. Steel wool is ok for getting lead out of the bore.
use it while you can, with no one fighting to keep lead bullets we will all be forced into buying pure copper bullets soon, not only for hunting but for target shooting as well.
But I would beware. There are people who work for the treasury department on the interwebs. Besides, there are better sources for zinc. Like a high school chemistry lab or Canadian pennies :p
The bullets in the Garand worked OK but I have some work to do on them. The AR will not cycle and I have to see if I can up the charge a bit to see. I also need to ensure th bullets aren't leading the barrel.
if you do lead a ar15 barrel, would you use a home de-leading tool like the one in your video's, the one your dad gave you? or would you have to put it into the shop to be de-leaded?
Hi i am trying to use Buck Beavers Reloading Flux (white powdery flux) on some wheel weight lead and it seems to stay on the surface and turn everything it touches to dross...do you know anything about this stuff? am i doing somthing wrong...thanks.
It's like Marvelux. Stir it in and it will float all the dross to the top. Use 1.4 teaspoon of it. Scrape the sides of the pot with your spoon. If it keeps giving you grief use paraffin wax.
I was experimenting making shotgun slugs with the zinc in pennies, but since I dont have a real mold I made one out of a block of wood. The problem I had was melting a large enoug amount of zinc and when I did get enought, it would cool very quickly. It was just an amateur attempt though, lol.....
As part of a standard die set for a particular caliber, it will include a die to push the spent primer out from the inside. It's called the de-capping die. Sometimes this die does another step at the same time. Each caliber requires a couple dies (as part of the die set) that completes all the steps to take a used brass round and make a new cartridge.
Lee. They sell .30 caliber in several weights. My next mold WILL be a Mountain Mold. They have you design it on a CAD program then they cut it for you. I've heard great things about their products.
Yeah, mines a four incher too, can't say enough good things about it. I've been shooting Speer #4677 swc's behind Unique. Got a new mold from Lee, Micro band 200 swc's. Switched to HS-6 so I could use magnum primers in my other rounds. I can't seem to find large pistol primers anywhere here(Michigan). Are you experiencing that too? Lots of magnums though.
The weapon is of high quality and fits me like a glove. If you "tune" your loads to the weapon...you can get 3" groups at 100 yards. I've hit the gong at 300 yards with this very same pistol. Once you get the hold over right...it's all about a steady hand.
I'm a bowling pin shooter, use a S&W 625JM, 45acp. I can get 1-1/12 groups out to about 20 yards, but that's taking my time. Can't do that with pins. I would be strutting big time if I could shoot like you. I know that there are people that can, I just have not met them yet. Like your vids, I've been tumble lubing with alox. what's your opinion of that stuff? All my loads are reduced loads though too.
Just curious what powder you are using for the reduced velocity loads in .223 and .308. Are you using a normal 223 powder, just less of it, or are you using a slower powder with case capacity still fairly full? (this is what makes sense to me, but I don't know). If you are comfortable sharing your data, it would be appreciated. If not, can I email you for specifics. Great video! Thanks.
So how did those bullets cycle in your AR? I have been reloading for a little bit now, but it seems the more I load the more I want to shoot. So, I am always looking for ways to make it cheaper. I just want to know if running the bullets that slow really cycles the action or not.
I'm not exactly sure. Chemical supply houses would be a start. Wheel weights have a good bit in them. Antimony is a metaloid it helps lead blend with other alloys like tin.
Great video. I have been reloading for 3 years and am getting ready to start casting. Question how do you feel about the type of lead melting pot that has no bottom pour and you must use a ladle? And as far as using flux can you use the same flux a plumber would use? Any advice would be helpful.
Hmmm. I think due to my nature of only keeping the ones that are within 1/10 of a grain, I think I could ask 10-15 cents a piece in this market. I also believe that that price would also depend on what I cast them from too and depends on if I cast a soft nose bullet.
since brass melts around 1200 degrees or higher, it would be hard to melt and brass hot enough to cast.Also there would be no way to size them and hard to load in the case
Me again, just wondering if you have ever heard of anyone casting bullets out of brass or other metals? Met a guy form WY the othere day who was telling me about casting bullets from brass. Thanks
Not with the moulds that are available. Brass is too hot is a castable liquid form. I do know of people who turn brass and bronze stock on a lathe to make some really interesting bullets. Lynotype when quesnched is almost as hard as bronze and is 97% the weight of lead. Ltnotype isused by printing presses.
what about lead fumes when you are doing the melting? Do you do it indoors and if so what steps do you take to protect yourself against the fumes? Does fabric absorve lead fumes and how dangerous can that be to animals and children. I have 2 kids and I can't wait to cast myself... I am just concern with doing it safely
Lead fumes are a concern. I don't think they're as bad as they are made out to be. I use a big Patton fan to draw the fumes away from me and to eject them out of the work area. Wash your clothes in warm water and take a shower after you've finished. Don't let your kids get near the work area while you're casting. Don't cast near where you would either prepare or eat any food.
Ammosmith...I love the video. I want to start casting bullets for my K31 so I can shoot all day!
I tried to go and create a user name on the website but it kept saying that I supplied the wrong "security check" although I check my typing several times...
Lee does not seem to make .308 caliber molds that have spitzer bullets in the 165-170 gr. range. Is this the norm?
I am assuming that they are not made because you can't shoot them fast? hunting rounds only?
I picked up some wheel weights from work today. I'm sure you know that there are several types of weights and most are coated to protect alloy and other types of wheel finishes. Do the coated weights produce more dross than the weights without the coating? I only picked up the non-coated weights that we use for steel wheels because I thought that they would produce less dross in a furnace. Also how much useable lead do you get from the weights. Adding up the ounces, it seems I wont need many...
The "tape" style suck, they have a lot of impurities in them. I find that most wheel weights you'll get about 95% out of them. If you can get the big rig weights. They are about a pound each. You want to keep your temperature arounf 600 degrees though. This way any zinc will float to the top. It'll look like a sponge foam. Skim and discard any impurities.
Yeah I am definately going to avoid sticky weights. We don't use those too much anyways. Since I joined the forum I guess I'll start leaving my questions there. (biggun1895gs) See you on the forum!
I cast indoors exclusively, but with ventalation and a fan. If you're careful you'll be alright. Wash your hands before eating and never keep food or drink in your work area.
great video. i am just starting to load and cast bullets myself. it is great on savings and i get the maximum enjoyment out of shooting bullets i have made myself
No, the bullet has to be soft enough to be engraved by the rifling. Steel, rock and other matirials won't work. There are some plastics that are interesting though.
Ammosmith, it seems like the going rate of lead on ebay is a dollar a pound, is that a good rate? If you get used wheel weights from tire shops, how do you properly clean it to its maximum potential? Any information would be most appreciated.
how did that experimental ammo fair in the AR? Also what model .45 do you have. I have a glock 21 and have my concerns about using casted ammo. Really enjoyed your video, great worked. I am interested in getting into reloading and your vid was very informative.
shooting lead cast bullets in glocks is a big no no its not good for it's polygonal rifling i made that mistake and took me quite a while to get out all of the lead but they shoot fine in my usp which has polygonal (go figure) if you want to shoot cast ammo out your glock get a drop in barrel from storm lake its a good investment if you shoot competition or need to save money which we all do now adays
It may or may not. Unique is a fast powder but doesn't give a long pressure band. I'll probably try a ball powder if this doesn't cycle. I can get my Daewoo K2 to most likely cycle since the gas system is adjustable.
Thank you, I am gathering all the equipment I need for reloading and casting bullets and I was going to shoot out of a Glock, thank you for parting with your experience.
Can you use old lead water pipes? What is a good bullet mold for .44 magnum - standard velocity?
DisabilityFraudKJW 4 weeks ago
@DisabilityFraudKJW Yes! Lead anything except car battery lead. The calcium makes a deadly gas. The BEST (IMHO) mold is the Lyman 429421 mold and push them at 1200f/s and that's Elmer's load.
ammosmith 4 weeks ago
8 cents a bullet? where do you buy your jacketed rifle bullets?
gsho2915 11 months ago
@gsho2915 I had bought a ton of bullets in 91'99' time period. I mean tens of thousands. Got em cheap. Anymore these days a loaded round will cost anywhere from 25cents to well over a dollar a round depending on what it is you're buying. I can load a box of fifty 45ACP for leaa than $2 and a box of twenty 308s for around the same...probably less. Cast is a great way to shoot more for a lot less. I can knock the rams down at 500m with my 308 and a 200gr cast bullet from my Fulton Garand.
ammosmith 3 months ago
can i have a list of universal ammunition bullet molds?
LordMoxas 1 year ago
@LordMoxas There isn't a true universal list. What are you looking for in particular?
ammosmith 1 year ago
@ammosmith .22 .38 .40 and .45 ammo. is there any universal ammunition for each of the above..
LordMoxas 1 year ago
@ammosmith like basically is the any difference in a .45 mag or a .45 pistol?
LordMoxas 1 year ago
@LordMoxas As far as 38/357 a (mm mold or and 38/357 mold works. The cast a little over sized so when you lube and size them you get the diameter you want. For 40 you can use any mold for 40/10mm/38-40 the 38-40 has a diameter of .400. I use a 240gr bullet in my 10mm. 45 you have usually two diameters to deal with .452" and .454" for handguns and 458-.460 for rifles. It's about sizing is key. Slug your barrel and size your bullets to .001" over your bore diameter.
ammosmith 1 year ago
what type of primer should i use for a 9mm bullet and a .38 special
maybeso08 1 year ago
@maybeso08 Standard small pistol.
ammosmith 1 year ago
I can't wait to get into this some more. I'll cast up a storm!! $60 for a box of 500 cast bullets? I say NAY. what are your thoughts on the tumble lube style bullets that Lee molds can yield? I'm on the fence between the tumble lube .44 mag mold and the traditional SWC style mold.
Thanks for a great video!
BigAssROMAN 1 year ago
is there a way to cast hollow point jacketed lead filled bullets for hunting or steel/copper fmj for m1 garand or other competition shooting? i realy want to get into this but i like to keep my ammo consistent with recretionl shootn, target practice, hunting, and competition shooting. i would love to shoot my own steel or copper bullets through my k31.
jamesrobertmey 1 year ago
@jamesrobertmey You can't cast a jacketed bullet you'll have to swage a jackets rifle bullet.
ammosmith 1 year ago
@ammosmith looks like ill have to use lead if i want to do this. is it hard to swage jackets? what about bullets cast out of copper or steel?
jamesrobertmey 1 year ago
@jamesrobertmey There's info on youtube about swaging your own bullets. You can essentially make your own jacketed hp bullets.
BigAssROMAN 1 year ago
did you poke a pencil or pen through those holes on the target
joeratti 1 year ago
@joeratti LOL no! Cast bullets are very accurate when combined with a good load and a quality firearm
ammosmith 1 year ago
@ammosmith no i asked that because those holes are like perfect circle on the second target. normally the paper it torn a little like the first target. im not doubting you or anything. oh and i meant after the fact
joeratti 1 year ago
@joeratti Wadcutter style bullets make perfect holes like that. They either are a perfect flat point or have a shoulder on them.
ammosmith 1 year ago
@ammosmith My idea is to pour tungsten bird shot into the cast and then pour in the lead, tin, bismuth or any other binding metal, thus creating a "vicious frangible nasty bullet"
Would it work?
762full 1 year ago
@762full why not steel shot?
omgiTsmeJon 3 months ago
so where may i find casts for 30-06 or .303 rounds. and were may i find equipment to manufacture the casings. and if so thank you for answering.
edmund94232 1 year ago
this may sound silly, but where is the jacket thing? the copper cover things, how do u load it in ur magazine, without the jacket? i wanna know how to make 9mm's
Cortezhmphll314 1 year ago
@GIDAN2987 Me too. Firearms and he manufacture of ammunition are truly a martial art.
ammosmith 1 year ago
I'm curious how you are able to load so cheaply? Even with free projectiles.... My .223 costs almost $0.077 per round just for powder/primers. You are pulling 1/2 that. What's the secret?? I am ordering in bulk from PV...
FLATblacktical 1 year ago
@FLATblacktical Primers are about 2 cents each for me (I have a plentiful supply) and the powder charge is about 5 cents for a .223 round and then free projectiles and range pickup brass.
ammosmith 1 year ago
@ammosmith I see. I just watched the video where you showed your storage of 70k+ primers. Gives me goosebumps! :)
FLATblacktical 1 year ago
If you fill the cast up half way (and wait for it to solidify) and then pour in the the rest, would it somehow make the bullet more likely to fragment during shooting?
What if you filled up 1/3, 2/3 and then 3/3? Would you get a bullet that fragments into 3 pieces because the metal cooled off in 3 different segments?
762full 1 year ago
Can you cast polymer, like nylon 6 instead of metal? (but with metal cores)
762full 1 year ago
@762full That's an interesting idea. I am not sure about the cores.
ammosmith 1 year ago
If you were to do such a thing would it enable you to use less gunpowder, since the bullet would have less weight to get moving?
762full 1 year ago
@762full You would need the same to get the velocity you want.
ammosmith 1 year ago
does this mean that the mass of the bullet is irrelevant? and only the amount of gun powder determines the velocity? Even if the polymer bullet is lighter?
762full 1 year ago
how well did those .223 work out for you? i'd be afraid of jamming up the gas system with lead...
DuqProf 1 year ago
@DuqProf They work OK but not enough pressure to cycle the action. That project is on hold for now.
ammosmith 1 year ago
Can you put small tungsten darts instide the cast and pour in bismuth and lead crating a tungsten/frangible bullet? Will Bismuth bond with the tungsten?
762full 1 year ago
Where can I get a mold for casings?
762full 1 year ago
@762full Brass is extruded not cast. The equipment is very expensive...like $50K plus
ammosmith 1 year ago
Really? then how can someone make your their own casings?
762full 1 year ago
Can you use aluminum instead of lead? Al does have a melting point that higher than lead
762full 1 year ago
@762full No. Too high of a melting point.
ammosmith 1 year ago
What about Tin or Zinc?
762full 1 year ago
@762full Tin and zinc both work but have limitations. Tin is hard and light and so is zinc. If you cast zinc use a steel mold. Zinc is very hot and can warp an aluminum mold.
ammosmith 1 year ago
But wouldnt hard and light be good qualities?
Can Al be used in a steel mold?
Do they have a cast for casings?
762full 1 year ago
@762full Aluminum creates aluminum oxide an abrasive. Cartridges are pressed into form. Otherwise they are brittle and vary in dimentions.
ammosmith 1 year ago
Is there any way around this problem?
762full 1 year ago
hey how were the ar15 bullets you casted?
mreisma 2 years ago
The load I used didn't cycle but I am going to use a different powder and that should take care of it. I am limited to about 2400 f/s otherwise accuracy is nil and leading becomes a real problem.
ammosmith 2 years ago
Man! how did you learn this stuff. Wow!
SouthPawPatriot 2 years ago
My Dad and Handloader Magazine.
ammosmith 2 years ago
I am also left handed...but in my right mind.
ammosmith 2 years ago
LOL
SouthPawPatriot 2 years ago
You've pasted on some great stuff!!.
SouthPawPatriot 2 years ago
Thanks...it's going to get better and better to. Our next DVD is coming out very soon.
ammosmith 2 years ago
so, did the 223 cast bullets cycle your ar15? if so, can you share the load you used? powder type / weight used, bullet weight, and primer?
thanks dan
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
No they did not. I am going to use them in my 22 Hornet. I am swaging bullets for the AR15 now out of empty 22 brass. I am still working on a load that cycles. Time is something I have little of these days.
ammosmith 2 years ago
22 brass? do you plan to use them as jackets? if so, are you using a press to form them?
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
I am using them as jackets. Look at my latest video...this is only the begining of a project that I am getting into.
ammosmith 2 years ago
also, is it possible to use the gas check plate on 223 to allow you to use higher loads for cycling?
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
They do use gas checks anyway but still limited to about 2000 f/s. I am experimenting with driving bands too. The Wilks gas check design. I am pushing a 30 caliber 180gr bullet at 2550 with no leading and impressive accuracy.
ammosmith 2 years ago
with a ar15, such as a CMMG, would it be possible to use a lighter recoil spring to allow lighter loads to cycle the action?
also, that jacket press was impressive. but i bet expensive for the average shooter such as myself.
thanks agian. dan
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
No. In a case of a rifle I use 0000 steel wool and an old bore brush. It works jast as good if not better.
ammosmith 2 years ago
but 0000 steel wool also removes the rifling groves doesnt it?
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
Nope. It's soft steel. If that were the case then the steel jacketed wolf ammo would destroy rifles. Barrel steel is generally made from 4140 ordinance steel and heat treated so it's very hard but not brittle. Steel wool is ok for getting lead out of the bore.
ammosmith 2 years ago
use it while you can, with no one fighting to keep lead bullets we will all be forced into buying pure copper bullets soon, not only for hunting but for target shooting as well.
Fight these lead bullet bans or we are all done.
walinga5 2 years ago
Holy cow!!! I'd be lucky to hit paper at 50 yards. That group is amazing. I think I'm going to start casting. It doesn't look hard after all.
prochobo 2 years ago
if this is true, you really need more trigger practice. trigger squeeze is extreeemly important to keep accuracy high. :) cheers.
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
Thank you very much, I'm all excited about getting into this now, you rock.
pantadon 2 years ago
You could cut a notch in the base of your melter for your H.P. mold.
Conan568 2 years ago
Marvelux is very corrosive,,,be sure and clean iead pot after use
1bad65truck 2 years ago
I didn't know that. Thank you!
ammosmith 2 years ago
is $20 for 3gallons of lead wheel weights a good deal?
phamax111 2 years ago
Not bad...I get mine for free. If you look around you can find lead for free. I even sift the berm from time to time.
ammosmith 2 years ago
Do you have an adjustable gas plug on your M1 to shoot the 200 grain bullets or is the velocity low enough to keep within the pressure range?
disturbedone5009 2 years ago
Velocity is low enough and I use a faster powder to manage port pressure.
ammosmith 2 years ago
With such a long bullet do you ever have any problems with feeding the round?
disturbedone5009 2 years ago
Over pennies? no.
But I would beware. There are people who work for the treasury department on the interwebs. Besides, there are better sources for zinc. Like a high school chemistry lab or Canadian pennies :p
Jrhoney 2 years ago
Have you tested those .30s and .22s in your Garand and AR yet? How'd they work?
mossbergmaniac1947 2 years ago
The bullets in the Garand worked OK but I have some work to do on them. The AR will not cycle and I have to see if I can up the charge a bit to see. I also need to ensure th bullets aren't leading the barrel.
ammosmith 2 years ago
if you do lead a ar15 barrel, would you use a home de-leading tool like the one in your video's, the one your dad gave you? or would you have to put it into the shop to be de-leaded?
danratsnapnames 2 years ago
Hi i am trying to use Buck Beavers Reloading Flux (white powdery flux) on some wheel weight lead and it seems to stay on the surface and turn everything it touches to dross...do you know anything about this stuff? am i doing somthing wrong...thanks.
CYCL0NUS1 2 years ago
It's like Marvelux. Stir it in and it will float all the dross to the top. Use 1.4 teaspoon of it. Scrape the sides of the pot with your spoon. If it keeps giving you grief use paraffin wax.
ammosmith 2 years ago
Is there any other harder metal that you can also use?
marshallspikebanana 2 years ago
Other than Linotype? If you're using a iron mold you can cast zinc.
ammosmith 2 years ago
I was experimenting making shotgun slugs with the zinc in pennies, but since I dont have a real mold I made one out of a block of wood. The problem I had was melting a large enoug amount of zinc and when I did get enought, it would cool very quickly. It was just an amateur attempt though, lol.....
marshallspikebanana 2 years ago
You know that destroying US currency is a felony right?
Jrhoney 2 years ago
You gonna turn me in?
marshallspikebanana 2 years ago
Would a aluminum mold melt if you cast zinc in it!?!
marshallspikebanana 2 years ago
No but it could warp.
ammosmith 2 years ago
Great video,
Could you please explain how you are using a plumbers tape as a lubricant?
Thanks!
vbludov 2 years ago
do you reuse the shells? if so how do you remove the used primer.
CyberSniper2k9 2 years ago
As part of a standard die set for a particular caliber, it will include a die to push the spent primer out from the inside. It's called the de-capping die. Sometimes this die does another step at the same time. Each caliber requires a couple dies (as part of the die set) that completes all the steps to take a used brass round and make a new cartridge.
mdmyers7206 2 years ago
not all cases can be deprimed or reloaded "zinc and metal"
vbludov 2 years ago
awsome video
MackAttack177 2 years ago
You said you used plumbers tape for a lube??? Seriously? How does that work out? Don't you get a plastic burn gunked up in your rifling?
dogbert41 2 years ago
plumber's tape is teflon
mdmyers7206 2 years ago
i have a 7.92x53mm mauser but i cant find any ammo for it what do i do?
taco1030 2 years ago
Where did you get the mold for the 30-06? I can only find 180gr and up. What grain are yours? Awesome Video!!
celraysoda 2 years ago
Lee. They sell .30 caliber in several weights. My next mold WILL be a Mountain Mold. They have you design it on a CAD program then they cut it for you. I've heard great things about their products.
ammosmith 2 years ago
Yeah, mines a four incher too, can't say enough good things about it. I've been shooting Speer #4677 swc's behind Unique. Got a new mold from Lee, Micro band 200 swc's. Switched to HS-6 so I could use magnum primers in my other rounds. I can't seem to find large pistol primers anywhere here(Michigan). Are you experiencing that too? Lots of magnums though.
wallenba 2 years ago
No primers anywhere..I have close to 60K but they are mostly large rifle magnum primers.
ammosmith 2 years ago
50 yards....off hand, dude thats 150 feet!!
wallenba 2 years ago
The weapon is of high quality and fits me like a glove. If you "tune" your loads to the weapon...you can get 3" groups at 100 yards. I've hit the gong at 300 yards with this very same pistol. Once you get the hold over right...it's all about a steady hand.
ammosmith 2 years ago
I'm a bowling pin shooter, use a S&W 625JM, 45acp. I can get 1-1/12 groups out to about 20 yards, but that's taking my time. Can't do that with pins. I would be strutting big time if I could shoot like you. I know that there are people that can, I just have not met them yet. Like your vids, I've been tumble lubing with alox. what's your opinion of that stuff? All my loads are reduced loads though too.
wallenba 2 years ago
I never tried tumble lubing. I have a S&W 625-4 .45 ACP and I love that gun! I shoot 255gr Keith SWC with 6.0gr of Unique. Flying sledgehammers!
ammosmith 2 years ago
Just curious what powder you are using for the reduced velocity loads in .223 and .308. Are you using a normal 223 powder, just less of it, or are you using a slower powder with case capacity still fairly full? (this is what makes sense to me, but I don't know). If you are comfortable sharing your data, it would be appreciated. If not, can I email you for specifics. Great video! Thanks.
tylerayiverson 2 years ago
what if you casted the bullets with stronger alloys can u shoot them at the normal rifle feet per second
seahawks38 2 years ago
So how did those bullets cycle in your AR? I have been reloading for a little bit now, but it seems the more I load the more I want to shoot. So, I am always looking for ways to make it cheaper. I just want to know if running the bullets that slow really cycles the action or not.
Mercenary357 3 years ago
What kind of mold was that, that you used for the .223 ammo? Where can I get one? Does Lee make that mold in six cavity? Thanks
angeleyes1198 3 years ago
And where would I get Antimony? Maybe a dumb question...
IPSC2ndHorseman 3 years ago
I'm not exactly sure. Chemical supply houses would be a start. Wheel weights have a good bit in them. Antimony is a metaloid it helps lead blend with other alloys like tin.
ammosmith 3 years ago
Great video. I have been reloading for 3 years and am getting ready to start casting. Question how do you feel about the type of lead melting pot that has no bottom pour and you must use a ladle? And as far as using flux can you use the same flux a plumber would use? Any advice would be helpful.
crazyredlion4500 2 years ago
Say I had some ingots cast from wheel weights. What ratio of tin to lead would bring the hardest rounds? Thanks!
IPSC2ndHorseman 3 years ago
if you made those into complete bullets, how much would they sell for?
C4XxXquad1 3 years ago
Hmmm. I think due to my nature of only keeping the ones that are within 1/10 of a grain, I think I could ask 10-15 cents a piece in this market. I also believe that that price would also depend on what I cast them from too and depends on if I cast a soft nose bullet.
ammosmith 3 years ago
since brass melts around 1200 degrees or higher, it would be hard to melt and brass hot enough to cast.Also there would be no way to size them and hard to load in the case
t4570 3 years ago
I'd like to know how those lead bullets cycled in your AR platform if it is a gas impingment system, or are you shooting an op rod system
docwondernuts 3 years ago
Me again, just wondering if you have ever heard of anyone casting bullets out of brass or other metals? Met a guy form WY the othere day who was telling me about casting bullets from brass. Thanks
pryitfromycoldeadhan 3 years ago
Not with the moulds that are available. Brass is too hot is a castable liquid form. I do know of people who turn brass and bronze stock on a lathe to make some really interesting bullets. Lynotype when quesnched is almost as hard as bronze and is 97% the weight of lead. Ltnotype isused by printing presses.
ammosmith 3 years ago
How much does the equipment cost to get into reloading? I'm interested in loading .30-06 rounds
simpleman601 3 years ago
what seating depth are you using for your .308 rounds?... they look a little long.
diverguy2583 3 years ago
I seat to the crimp groove. They end up right at 2.815" The round nose gives it a deceptive look.
ammosmith 3 years ago
what about lead fumes when you are doing the melting? Do you do it indoors and if so what steps do you take to protect yourself against the fumes? Does fabric absorve lead fumes and how dangerous can that be to animals and children. I have 2 kids and I can't wait to cast myself... I am just concern with doing it safely
lovshooting 3 years ago
Lead fumes are a concern. I don't think they're as bad as they are made out to be. I use a big Patton fan to draw the fumes away from me and to eject them out of the work area. Wash your clothes in warm water and take a shower after you've finished. Don't let your kids get near the work area while you're casting. Don't cast near where you would either prepare or eat any food.
ammosmith 3 years ago
got it.
thanks much. I am doing this.
lovshooting 3 years ago
Ammosmith...I love the video. I want to start casting bullets for my K31 so I can shoot all day!
I tried to go and create a user name on the website but it kept saying that I supplied the wrong "security check" although I check my typing several times...
Lee does not seem to make .308 caliber molds that have spitzer bullets in the 165-170 gr. range. Is this the norm?
I am assuming that they are not made because you can't shoot them fast? hunting rounds only?
Any leading in the AR?
Iraqveteran8888 3 years ago
I picked up some wheel weights from work today. I'm sure you know that there are several types of weights and most are coated to protect alloy and other types of wheel finishes. Do the coated weights produce more dross than the weights without the coating? I only picked up the non-coated weights that we use for steel wheels because I thought that they would produce less dross in a furnace. Also how much useable lead do you get from the weights. Adding up the ounces, it seems I wont need many...
gandb21 3 years ago
The "tape" style suck, they have a lot of impurities in them. I find that most wheel weights you'll get about 95% out of them. If you can get the big rig weights. They are about a pound each. You want to keep your temperature arounf 600 degrees though. This way any zinc will float to the top. It'll look like a sponge foam. Skim and discard any impurities.
ammosmith 3 years ago
Yeah I am definately going to avoid sticky weights. We don't use those too much anyways. Since I joined the forum I guess I'll start leaving my questions there. (biggun1895gs) See you on the forum!
gandb21 3 years ago
Welcome aboard! I'll see you there.
ammosmith 3 years ago
love all your videos. and to think I can view them for free.
lovshooting 3 years ago
Knowledge is power. I want to share all I can while I can. Check out our website too.
ammosmith 3 years ago
Can you produce lead bullets indoors? Or would a ventilation/exhaust system be required?
gandb21 3 years ago
I cast indoors exclusively, but with ventalation and a fan. If you're careful you'll be alright. Wash your hands before eating and never keep food or drink in your work area.
ammosmith 3 years ago
Did you ever find out if the 223s would cycle your AR? I have considered casting for mine, but didn't know if it would work.
dstrbd223 3 years ago
Yes and no. With 6.0gr of Unique no. It will if you use a rifle powder like H335 and push it to 2700f/s
ammosmith 3 years ago
great video. i am just starting to load and cast bullets myself. it is great on savings and i get the maximum enjoyment out of shooting bullets i have made myself
joeatedirt 3 years ago
Great video! 5 stars.
ColdFusion0 3 years ago
i just thought of this one smallville episode where the guy makes bullets out of kryptonite,
and i thought, could you make bullets out of granite, or coloured glass or something?
Dmajorproductions 3 years ago
No, the bullet has to be soft enough to be engraved by the rifling. Steel, rock and other matirials won't work. There are some plastics that are interesting though.
ammosmith 3 years ago
Ammosmith, it seems like the going rate of lead on ebay is a dollar a pound, is that a good rate? If you get used wheel weights from tire shops, how do you properly clean it to its maximum potential? Any information would be most appreciated.
tattorres 3 years ago
how did that experimental ammo fair in the AR? Also what model .45 do you have. I have a glock 21 and have my concerns about using casted ammo. Really enjoyed your video, great worked. I am interested in getting into reloading and your vid was very informative.
mashoutman 3 years ago
shooting lead cast bullets in glocks is a big no no its not good for it's polygonal rifling i made that mistake and took me quite a while to get out all of the lead but they shoot fine in my usp which has polygonal (go figure) if you want to shoot cast ammo out your glock get a drop in barrel from storm lake its a good investment if you shoot competition or need to save money which we all do now adays
phamax111 3 years ago
Don't shoot cast bullets ina Glock. I haven't gotten to the range in a long while so the AR will be next.
ammosmith 3 years ago
I would definitely like to hear how that .223 cycled when you get around to it.
lamarbrog 3 years ago
It may or may not. Unique is a fast powder but doesn't give a long pressure band. I'll probably try a ball powder if this doesn't cycle. I can get my Daewoo K2 to most likely cycle since the gas system is adjustable.
ammosmith 3 years ago
K, give us an update when you learn if it does or does not.
Just remember, ball powder is what caused all those problems back in Nam... that and not issuing cleaning kits.
It might cycle... but you might get a little dirtier.
lamarbrog 3 years ago
I would like thak you for all your videos. They have been a great help. I am learning a lot from YouTube instructors :)
tattorres 3 years ago
Thank you, I am gathering all the equipment I need for reloading and casting bullets and I was going to shoot out of a Glock, thank you for parting with your experience.
tattorres 3 years ago
Thanks! Knowledge is power.
ammosmith 3 years ago
Awesome! Keep 'em coming.
ThunderPigBlog 3 years ago