View Full Version : .36 cartridge conversion...
mannyCA
05-10-2013, 12:34 AM
for the open tops, specifically the '51 navys. Anyone do this successfully in 38 LC? Was thinking about getting a cylinder and doing the casting. Which hollow based mold works best?
Or should I just go with the Kirst converter and drill out the gate? Anyone have experience with them?
thanks!
.22-10-45
05-10-2013, 10:44 AM
Hello, mannyCA. I have a circa 1972 Colt re-make of their .1851 navy .36 percussion, I have installed the Kirst conversion cyl..but the case colors are so pretty..I can't bring myself to alter this gun..so cyl. is removed for reloading..not so big a problem.
There are two ways to go about it..hollow-base bullets cast soft..or factory swaged HBWC over light loads of Bullseye..or heel-base bullets as per originals. Old West Bullets makes these moulds..I bought a heel/hollow base mould from them..but have not had a chance to try it out.
Mike Brooks
05-10-2013, 07:43 PM
I have a R&D conversion in 38 LC. I shoot BP and hollow based wadcutters in 38 special. Excellent shooter.
mannyCA
05-13-2013, 11:51 PM
.22-10-45: so your colt second gen is a true case-hardened piece? I don't know if I'd drill it out either!
Mike: are you casting your own HBWC?
bob208
05-14-2013, 06:43 AM
i have used the lee .36 bullet seat the heal in the case crimp under the full size part. just like they did it in the old days.
Try heel based boolits that's what I am going do.
You can load heel based bullets almost as fast as "regular" or inside lubed bullets
As a resource link:
www.oldwestbulletmoulds.com
New source of cast bullets (from Old West Moulds):
This should make your life easier (if you don't cast)
http://www.alphabravobullets.com/products/shop.php?exp=&cat=4
Mike Brooks
05-15-2013, 06:35 PM
I'm using speer or hornaday HBWC at I think 148 grs.
mannyCA
05-17-2013, 12:03 AM
great info here guys, thanks!
eljefe
05-22-2013, 06:10 AM
I am interested in how you lube your loads, Mike.
Also, how much powder are you able to load with
the hollow base?
Mike Brooks
05-24-2013, 09:37 PM
I am interested in how you lube your loads, Mike.
Also, how much powder are you able to load with
the hollow base?
I think it's 18 or 19gr of 3fff. I lube over the end of the cylinder like a cap & ball gun.
I think it's 18 or 19gr of 3fff. I lube over the end of the cylinder like a cap & ball gun.
So can one take a smokeless pre lube boolit, or one with Lee Alox or a un lubed boolit? Loaded it in the case, then put Crisco or some other BP lube? and it will work ok?
I have a lot of smoke less boolits already lubed is the reason I am asking.
I would like to try some BP loads for a open top.
rbertalotto
05-25-2013, 09:45 AM
So can one take a smokeless pre lube boolit, or one with Lee Alox or a un lubed boolit? Loaded it in the case, then put Crisco or some other BP lube? and it will work ok?
I do this all the time. I cast 36cal bullets, alox lube them and load....TC Bore Butter over the bullet and fire. Works great. Keeps fouling soft and I can shoot a whole CAS match with no issues. Cleans up real easy too.
Mike Brooks
05-25-2013, 09:45 AM
I have shot lots of smokeless bullets this way with BP in revolvers.
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