Mold Mod.

[augois]

I have an RCBS 358-180-sil double cav. mold. I load this bullet in my .357mag. I average about 1100fps from a 3" barreled 686. Now to the crux. The GC shank on this bullet is a bit oversized, and the checks are a pain in the patooty to install. I'm contemplating having someone modify the mold to remove the check shank. Comments, thoughts, or feedback?

[That'll Do]

The boolit should be just fine if you have the check shank professionally removed.

I've contemplated having the check shank removed on my Saeco #393 (38-162-SWC-GC), as I like the boolit, but don't need the check (I use a Lyman 358156 for my high-speed activities).

I believe there is a member here who does mold modifications at reasonable prices.

[Catshooter]

If you search for threads I've started you'll see some examples of my doing just that. I've both added and removed gas checks.

Welcome to the forum by the by.


Cat

[mooman76]

Have you tried shooting it the way it is without GCs? Might be fine as is.

[Ben]

I'd go with Buckshot with the g/c shank removal. He is an excellent machinist.

Ben

[augois]

do people have good luck shooting GC boolits w/o the check?....BTW I rechecked my notes, and these boolits are traveling at 1000fps out of the 3" 686 not 1100fps.

[Echo]

Another possibility is to expand the GC's with a round-head bolt. Spill them out on the workbench, make them all open up, put the bolt head on one and tap w/mallet/hammer/crescent wrench/whatever, just enough to spread the check enough to go on the boolit easily - sizing will crimp on nicely.

[Buckshot]

I'd go with Buckshot with the g/c shank removal. He is an excellent machinist.

Ben

.............Thanks Ben, the check is in the mail but it's going to be a bit short My lathe has been out of commission for the past 2 plus weeks. Luckily enough the part I need is also shared by the 10" Logan (mine's an 11") and they come across Evil Bay on occasion. Naturally since I need it they're NOT there!

Bless Scott Logan's heart as he DOES have the part (NOS) but it's $300. If it was unique to the 11" machine I'd be on it like a chicken on a June bug. I think I'll give it another couple weeks. If I can't find one used I'll have to bite the boolit (to remain on topic) and go the new route. I really AM thankfull that Logan still supports their lathes so well, but money IS money after all and $300 is a real chunk for me to pay out.

..............Buckshot