#375296 vs. #375449

[insanelupus]

I'm just curious. I'll be casting for a .38-55 in the near future with a bore of .377. I currently have a Lyman #375296 on hand. However most loading data I have shows up for the #375449.

Is there any real appreciable difference in these two bullets? I have no problems developing loads for this rifle. I'm just curious if I should go ahead and purchase a 375449. If there is not much difference (other than a few grains when cast form WWs) then I'll just use what I have on hand.

However, I have no prior experience with the .38-55.

[missionary5155]

Good morning
Unless you just want the 449 mold I would go ahead and cast up a fewBolits with the 296 and see how they measure up and fit your rifle´s Throat.
You did not mention if this is a Marlin or a Winny. Marlin have shorter OAL capacities so a LONG nose boolit will lock up in the action. Winnys are longer actions and tolerate somewhat longer nose boolits. But Winnys have limits also.
You can shorten some brass to make the AOL fit. I have done that and you just need to segregate that brass.
AOL is the BIG difference in the two molds.
Mike in Peru

[insanelupus]

It's an older rifle, Marlin 1936. I'll use the longer 38-55 brass as it fits the chamber better than the shorter version.

[JFE]

I have both of moulds and there is not much difference in the loads that I use. Weight is only a few grains different, with 375296 being slightly lighter. 375296 has a longer nose which I think better fills the chamber and a wider meplat (0.25 vs 0.22). Mine has an as cast diameter of 0.381 where my 375449 mould is smaller. I cant recall but I think it is .378.

I size to 0.377 for a 375 Win so the 375449 gets used more. In your case I'd simply use the one you have.

Joe