New to Casting Bullets

[2A-Jay]

I am new to Muzzle Loaders, but also new to Casting bullets. I have a Lee 10lb bottom pour Furnace, RCBS Double Cavity .490 175gr Round Ball mold, and an RCBS Single Cavity .50cal 450gr. Flat nose mold. I have my alloy perfect for the round ball, and just about right (the bullets I have molded weigh out at 460 grains instead of 450.

Melt temp is right at 750 degrees, no frosty or wrinkled bullets (round ball or conical), so I am pleased there.

These will be shot with my TC Black Diamond XR.

As a newby in this shooting/loading venture (I have been reloading for Centerfire Rifles and Handguns for about 10 years now). I will most likely be seeking advice in the Black Powder Realm.

As an aside, I am also learning navigation of Cast Boolits. So far I have enjoy my look around. (BTW my Pride and Joy Gun is my 95% Original 1903 Springfield (Remington Arsenal dated 10/'42)

Jay:

[Winger Ed.]

Welcome.

I had a late model unissued Remington '03.
It did real well with gas checked cast boolits up close to the max loads for them in the Lyman book.

[2A-Jay]

I only shoot M2 Ball ammo (replicated with new brass but bullet and powder is what the Army Ordinance Corp called for in the 40's.

[RU shooter]

The 03 is a fine cast bullet shooter . Get your self a 30 cal mould (the Lee 185 is a good start )and 16-18 grs of 2400 also a good start . Cheap to load easy on the shoulder and the ears and can shoot better than ball ammo when you hit that sweet spot .

[pworley1]

Welcome.

[GregLaROCHE]

I always liked 3031 powder for my 03A3 Springfield I got from my father and now passed on to my son.

[2A-Jay]

I use 4895 for the Springfield ammo with 150gr FMJ Boat tails, produces inch and a half to 2 inch at 100 yards with the Battle Sight on a good day.