Did some testing today of the factory (SBR) ammo while I was working up the loads for my Automag. Shooting these out of a 8.5 Classic Edition.
SBR JHP (XTP) Lot # 170603 Averaged 1524 FPS with a spread of 60 and SD of 16.7
SBR FMJ Lot # 200612 Averaged 1431 FPS with a spread of 46 and SD of 14.6
Both were purchased around the same time - a few years ago.
I used the 22.5 gr of H110 as a baseline and tested 240 Gr Hornady XTP and Eggleston coated lead bullets. I’m loading these on a Dillon 650 with a Mr. Bulletfeeder.
XTP Average 1477 FPS with a spread of 68 and SD of 20.8
Eggleston Munitions Flat Point Coated Lead averaged 1513.5 with a spread of 68 and SD of 21.9
BW
It's nice to see someone else running lead through theirs. I've been shooting lead bullets in mine for a while - I don't have a .44 mold yet, so I bought a box of 500 commercial RNFP lead 240-gr bullets, melted the lube off them and coated them.
I just found a source for coated 44 Mag 240gr RNFP:
https://www.bearcreeksupplybullets.com/44-240-rnfp
Cos is $58 for 500. I think I will order a box and give them a try. I shoot hard cast lead Keith bullets in all my magnum revolvers, but Hornady XTP in my Auto Mags because of the conventional wisdom that says you can’t shoot lead bullets through them. Andy has successfully demonstrated otherwise so I’m going to follow his lead with lead. 😀
Missouri Bullet Company also has both RNFP and TCFP 240 grain coated bullets, Brinnell 18, for $61.50 for 500, on this page:
https://missouribullet.com/results.php?pageNum_rsCWResults=4&category=5&secondary=12
I have been loading a 215gr lead round nose bullet, that I cast from an old Lee mold, that I have been using to cast bullets for my 44-40. I have had good results using 21.5grs of H110. I recently was at the range and ran 125 rounds through my 6.5 inch, with great results. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3uGq72ee0s
I have been loading a 215gr lead round nose bullet, that I cast from an old Lee mold, that I have been using to cast bullets for my 44-40. I have had good results using 21.5grs of H110. I recently was at the range and ran 125 rounds through my 6.5 inch, with great results. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3uGq72ee0s
Pete, are you coating your lead bullets or using gas checks or just plain base?
I'm a little surprised that a load that low will cycle with the 215 grain lead bullets in the new pistols as they are quite a bit softer than jacketed.
Thanks for the report!
@bob-cohee Hard cast plain base. I recently loaded up another batch of ammo, but I upped the powder charge to 22 grs of H110. Hope to be able to try them out soon.
@bob-cohee Hard cast plain base. I recently loaded up another batch of ammo, but I upped the powder charge to 22 grs of H110. Hope to be able to try them out soon.
Thanks for the reply.
How many rounds do you fire at a time and are you getting any leading?
@bob-cohee Last time out, I fired125 rounds, with very little leading. I run a pretty hard alloy, with a lot of antimony. I have always been a big cast bullet guy. I run cast in almost everything I own, except for some high powered rifle rounds. I have never had a big problem with barrel leading.
Thanks again, it sounds like Auto Mag is putting out some pretty good barrels.
@john-d-owens The gawkers come out of the woodwork whenever I take my old North Hollywood out to the range. I don't know how people can tell it is not just another 44 magnum but they do. I am always prepared with some extra ammo for the inevitable of those wanting to try a shot! I have 2 new Automats on order and I am expecting my Raven to ship any day now. I am thinking about taking your advise on the cocking piece. I may also break down for the loading tool.
I just ordered the mag loading tool. I can only load 5 rounds with my bare hands.
Got the mag loading tool and am now able to load 7 rounds in each magazine.
I just found a source for coated 44 Mag 240gr RNFP:
https://www.bearcreeksupplybullets.com/44-240-rnfp
Cos is $58 for 500. I think I will order a box and give them a try. I shoot hard cast lead Keith bullets in all my magnum revolvers, but Hornady XTP in my Auto Mags because of the conventional wisdom that says you can’t shoot lead bullets through them. Andy has successfully demonstrated otherwise so I’m going to follow his lead with lead. 😀
All,
