Hey y’all
I have shot lead bullets but new to casting. I started with a venture in 9mm and would like to explain the progression and get any tips.
For a precursor, I am shooting range scrap. I’ve added some tin for better pour and have had no issue making pretty bullets. I am using Lee 355 TC molds, which I have a 2 cavity and 5 cavity ( I think). My foray in powder coating has been successful with the product from smoke and Eastwood. Basically made a bunch of pink, blue and green crayons thus far.
My first attempt was a set of bullets Lee sized at .356. My logical assumption that was the bore size for 9mm is 355, but After slugging bores, I now understand there is a good bit of variance. These 5-9mm pistols range between .357 and .358. I had ehhh accuracy, no leading and about 15% bullets that wanted to yaw and tumble.
With this first batch I had a slight bit of shaving when seating. I use RCBS carbide dies, but i crimp separately with Lee FCD or regular Lee taper crimp. I learned that I need to flare a good bit more.
Next step was to switch over to a .358 stem for my rcbs expander and I worked a batch of rounds with that set up, which now shaved Andy, because you can’t run the full depth of 38 special expander in a 9mm.
This batch of rounds is now basically crap and I am pulling them. Partly due to now over crimping them and concerns with losing proper headspace from excessive headspace.
To summarize, I have zero concerns with my loading practices. I learn every day, but my foundation is solid.
Is this the normal progression for messing with cast bullets.
To recap- mold makes a .356 and I get .359/360 after coating. I’m sizing , which then requires expanding to .358 and then taking my .356 stem to get the proper flare. I haven’t even got to the point where I know if these newly sized pills will fly.
Please give me your thoughts.