32-20 Winchester in S&W 1905 4” - Mold Size
Kinda new here with cast boolits, but have been very successful with auto pistols (Glocks), auto carbine, and a Win 94 38-55. Now, I have an old revolver I’m resurrecting for a ranch pistol. First time casting for revolver.
The 1905 is a 3rd change - 1909-1915. Have checked all ‘gaps’ and the revolver is ‘tight’ as a new one. Recently fired it with HSM ammo that appears to be .314” diameter and it shot accurate with no leading. No pin gauges, so I pulled a new bullet and checked the cylinder throat vs barrel fit. The cylinder throats are slightly larger than the barrel. Bullet ‘hangs’ in cylinder throats but can be pushed all the way through with slight pressure. Bullet will not go into barrel, so the barrel is slightly tighter.
It appears that .314” shoots well and has no leading from exposed cast boolit. I will be powdercoating. I’m looking over molds and am wanting to use a 115gr RNFP.
My question is: What diameter mold should I buy? I’m looking at an Arsenal and they will size to whatever I say. My alloy used on other boolits drops a bit large at .003+/-; SN 0.97, SB 2.47, PB 96.6 = 11.2 BHN. I can use a Lee .314 sizer. PC should add about .0005”. I’m hoping to continue my current alloy as it works well on game. I know the more SB makes the boolit larger.
I’m wanting you experts opinions for a starting point. I’m thinking .313” mold size. Appreciate all input. I’ve learned a ton from you guys!