Hi All,
I was lucky to have acquired an M71 and M71/84 many years ago and started loading for the 71/84 using Pyrodex. My interests turned elsewhere and these rifles have sat unused for quite some time. However, recently while looking back in my reloading supply stockpile for some primers, I discovered I had an unopened 8lb jug of XMP5744 back there. I have no clue where I got it but from what I've read online, its a good powder for BPCR rifles. So I thought I'd try using it for my M71 & M71/84 and get them shooting again.
For the M71/84, I have the Lyman 446110 (340gr) mold and I recall that shot pretty well using the Pyrodex. However, I never got around to buying a mold for the M71. Looking in my pile of molds I see that I have a Lee 457-500-F as well as the Lee 452-230 RN and 452-230 TC for my .45's. Any thought on whether the bullets from any of these molds would work if I size to .452? My initial thought is that the 500 gr seems a little heavy and the 230gr's seem a little light.
The other alternative I guess would be to paper patch the 446 although its been years since I did any paper patching. I like to tumble lube so I'm guessing I would paper patch first then tumble lube?
Anyway, I would appreciate any thoughts, insight or 5744 load data from the experts.
thanks