Correct Boolet Diameter

[jgh4445]

I cast a bunch of boolits from a Lyman 35863, 4 cavity mold. I was expecting a diameter of well, 358. What I got was a pretty consistent 354,355.

Same problem with a Lyman 450229 Hollow base 45. I was expecting 452 and I get 448, 449. What do I need to add to my pure lead to increase a diameter?

I'm gonna try the HB 45's in a 1858 New Army replica. The weight is pretty consistent 149-150 gr. I'm thinking the small diameter will lead the barrel. Thinking the same with the 38 wad cutters. Opinions?

[prs]

Pure lead drops smaller than lead, tin, antinony alloys. Lyman claims nominal diameter with Lynan #2 alloy. Often recent Lyman molds have been found too small even at that.

prs

[jgh4445]

Thanks prs. I have some wheel weights, I'll try that. Can you tell me what I'd add ( and how much) to pure lead or WW to get Lyman #2?

[Shiloh]

Under size mold are frustrating. I have several. My best ones are my .358 molds which all drop .358 minimum. Oversize can be dealt with.

SHiloh

[Le Loup Solitaire]

For the 358063, .354 is unacceptable. As soon as you go to Wheelweight metal that should increase especially if you add up to 2% tin. Of course components can be increased with a corresponding increase in bullet diameter. See if you can locate the Terracorp formula; it was used as a reference by Saeco for those looking to increase as-cast bullet diameters by altering tin-antimony ratios. If you can get diameters up to a tad over .357 you will be in the ballpark. LLS

[runfiverun]

straight linotype might get your 355 diameter 35 cal mold to 357 barely, maybe on a good day if you hold your tongue right.

you got 2 choices.
1. try the ww alloy then send the molds back with the samples and have them repaired.
or 2. learn to lap a mold out, this option comes in real handy when/if ordering other lyman molds.

[geargnasher]

Typical Lyman these days. Next time spend your money on an Accurate mould.

Gear

[jgh4445]

Good advice on the learning to lap. So....after I determine that I cannot increase size to say, 358 or 9, using different alloys, I use the valve grinding compound in each cavity until I get the desired diameter..then run thru my sizing die as per normal right?

[prs]

I do not recall the WW plus tin plus antimony mix to mimick Lyman #2. It is too rich for my blood and unnecessairly hard for my needs. The RotoMetals site lists #2 composition, heavy on the tin$.

prs