I've cast 500, 200gr semi wad cutters (Lee 452-200) and my mix of 50% coww and 50% pure lead with a little tin added, makes my mix of 3,2,95 with a bhn of 10.5. These are for the 45 ACP and I think should be about right. . . . Now I'm working on making a bunch of 300gr large flat nose (Lee 452-300 gc) for use in my 454 Casull's. They air drop at 12.5 bhn and water drop at 18.5 bhn. Since they are gas checked . . . . How hard do they really need to be? Since the gas checks take care of one of the reasons harder bullets are needed, would the air dropped bullets be ok . . . Or do I need to strive for the harder bullets? I usually load somewhere between mid range and full house for the 454. I think I'm pushing them around 1350 to 1450 fps. Any advise is appreciated . . . Thanks