expert insight please

[danielasmith223]

Just picked up a mosin recently and i am considering reloading and casting. Here is the equipment i am thinking about getting i would appreciate your insight on it or possibly link to guides on this issue. I've narrowed down my molds to one of these two:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/752956/lee-2-cavity-bullet-mold-c312-155-2r-762x39mm-312-diameter-155-grain-2-ogive-radius-gas-check

and

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/339539/lee-2-cavity-bullet-mold-ctl312-160-2r-762x39mm-312-diameter-160-grain-tumble-lube-2-ogive-radius-gas-check


I'm leaning towards the 160 grain because the grooves seem like that would be better at preforming a natural gas check though design. I'm trying to do this as economically as possible. What your thoughts on this?

Also, i plan to load the bullets with this:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/223459/lee-classic-loader-762x54mm-rimmed-russian-762x53mm-rimmed

Melt WW with this:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/645810/lee-pro-4-20-lb-furnace-110-volt

Has anyone had luck with these tools?

Lastly, what is the most economical powder to use for this application as a beginner?

[mdi]

OK, I be a eggspurt! I would go with the gas check design, but both of these bullets are designed for the 7.62x39 and possibly not work in the 7.62x54r, but worth a try. I'd look at the Lyman .303 bullet, http://www.lymanproducts.com/lyman/bullet-casting/select-mould-rifle.php?styleRef=cat08#anc. But first you need to slug the barrel to see what bullet mold will cast bullets to fit your Mosin (mine slugs @ .314).

BTW; I also have a Lee Loader for my 7.62x54r, but haven't used it yet. It joins my Lee Loader family (6 loaders) which I use when I don't want to re-set one of my presses or when I just feel "retro". Today I'm gonna use my 30-30 Lee Loader to assemble some ammo for my Handi Rifle (I'm trying some Hornady A-Max bullets. My latest project).

For loads look at Lyman's 49th or Lyman's Cast Bullet Handbook 3rd Edition (I believe the 3rd is available at Amazon.com). Whole bunch of info for cast bullets besides load data.

I too use that Lee pot, it's worked for about 10-11 years...