I am compiling an inventory of cast bullets for a web app I'm working on. It will offer measurements, weight, and picture comparison of bullets to help with load development and also just as a fun reference. Also I will include variation samples and info when I have them. My site will be free for all, and will be useful for load development or comparison of cast bullets.
I am asking for bullet samples of any and all calibers to help me compile this data. I need the bullets to be presented to me with as much information as possible. This includes, but is not limited to, bullet number and name, any markings on the mould, Approximate or exact date year of mould if known, alloy. I need these samples to be in the raw. That means not lubed or sized or powder coated. I am glad to accept a sample size of 1 or up to as many as you wish to send. I want variations, so if you have a couple 429421 moulds that cast differently, please include both, with as many of these details as possible. Each needs to be separated in a baggy or envelope to keep from being damaged in transit and storage. I want both home cast and commercial cast samples. For commercial cast bullets, obviously I can't get them raw so I'll accept what I can get, but I need the info associated with them such as model and make.
Also, if no detailed info is there, but you just have the mould number or make or any info, that is also accepted, and will be used as well. Just write a note with the info you DO have.
In my own journey, I have resorted to actually obtaining a physical sample of many similar bullets and using those bullets to obtain measurements for "used case volume" in order to use known data for load work up when using a bullet for which no specific data exists.
My example of how my compilation will be useful; I had a Lee 358-140-SWC and I wanted to use that for both 38 special and 357 magnum. For 38 special, it was quite simple, I just substituted the bullet for a similar looking bullet of similar weight in the Lyman manual. Because the working pressure limit was a fair amount above the target loads I was developing there was a large margin of error for safety. But for 357 magnum using W296 powder, the margin of error was decreased significantly. I was quite uncomfortable just making a simple bullet substitution. I was able to obtain several samples of similar bullets however for a direct comparison. The RCBS 38-150-SWC has nearly an identical measurement from the base to the crimp groove, and being just a touch heavier, I was comfortable using the data for load development.
If you'd like to help, please message me and I will provide my shipping address for samples.
Thank you for your help in this endeavor. I will link to the website and data when it becomes available.