.433 BHN bullets in S&W Model 29 revolvers

[goodwrenchldj]

I own two S&W model 29-2s. Based on the serial numbers the 4” one was manufactured in 1972 and the 6 ½” in 1968. Unfortunately, they both have .4335 cylinder throats.

Because of what I have read here and in other places I have created some mild (767 fps) 44 Special and mild (912 fps) 44 magnum loads using .433 Lyman 429421 bullets cast from a BHN 15 alloy.

I have some concern about how much stress will be applied to the forcing cone when it squeezes these bullets down to the approximately .429 bore diameter of these revolvers. I have not fired any of these loads yet.

Do any of you have experience doing this? Any response that I receive will be appreciated.

[Outpost75]

My 29-1 has big throats like yours. I cast bullets of 10 BHN alloy and size .433 with no issues.

Very accurate. Just stay a bit below maximum loads.

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

I'd use a softer alloy, something around BHN 10 for those loads. But, either way, your gun can handle it.

[Whole Bunches]

I have similar, but not as big as yours in my Ruger 44 special, so mine sized come out .4135”. At first using Lyman #2, the accuracy was barely ok. Trying 20/1lead/tin, it cut my groups in half. My load is in the 925fps range. I agree, try a softer alloy.