centershot
08-20-2017, 11:32 AM
OK, I know that, metallurgically, there is a difference. Let's say you cast a bullet from a softer alloy and and it comes out at BHN = 9. Let's say you then WQ that alloy and it comes out at BHN = 15. Then, let's say that you go a step further and mix an alloy that comes out BHN = 15 when AC. The bottom line is, both boolits end up at BHN 15. If you then subject these boolits to a peak pressure that is appropriate for the hardness, do they act the same? Or is there a difference in their performance based solely on their metallurgical composition?
Case in point, I am working with a new-to-me Marlin 375 (375 Winchester). I am currently loading the Lee 375-255 PB cast out of 94-3-3 alloy over 10 grains of Unique. The load woks good, 2" groups @ 50 yards, average velocity is 1304 fps. These boolits are tumble-lubed and shot as cast. They mike .380", my bore (microgroove) slugs at .378". Everything is working good!
Now, I am fairly certain that I can get up to 1500 fps w/o a gascheck if the load is right. I have WQ some of these boolits, after 2 weeks they are REALLY hard!! I don't have a hardness tester so I don't know the BHN. So is a WQ boolit as capable as a boolit made from stronger alloy but AC? Should I just add some Lino to my stash of Lyman #2 and AC them? What are your thouhjts?
Case in point, I am working with a new-to-me Marlin 375 (375 Winchester). I am currently loading the Lee 375-255 PB cast out of 94-3-3 alloy over 10 grains of Unique. The load woks good, 2" groups @ 50 yards, average velocity is 1304 fps. These boolits are tumble-lubed and shot as cast. They mike .380", my bore (microgroove) slugs at .378". Everything is working good!
Now, I am fairly certain that I can get up to 1500 fps w/o a gascheck if the load is right. I have WQ some of these boolits, after 2 weeks they are REALLY hard!! I don't have a hardness tester so I don't know the BHN. So is a WQ boolit as capable as a boolit made from stronger alloy but AC? Should I just add some Lino to my stash of Lyman #2 and AC them? What are your thouhjts?