slugged bore--what bullet

[Texashogman]

I know fit is king----So I slugged my RIA 52000 bore this past weekend and found it to be .401" (not the expected .400") -- from my understanding, this is closer to the Glock bore size ( but I don't have a glock in 10mm)

I don't cast

my question lies in cast bullet size---most "off the shelf" cast bullets are .401", do the .401" bore size guys still use the "off the shelf" .401" bullets or do you use a "custom" .402"?

If I buy higher priced hunting cast bullets I can get them sized anywhere from .400-.402" --- BUT the cheaper "plinking" cast, plated, coated bullets all come in .401" --- any issues with accuracy or leading that anyone has had with a certain bullet they tried  

I'm trying to make up my mind on what company to buy my cast bullet range fodder from and was looking for prior hands on knowledge from .401" bore size guys


maybe I'm just over thinking it all---my intent is to shoot a comfortable load and limit the speed just a bit for range use---- I found a couple sweet spots for the left over 180grain berry's plated bullets I have from my 40 cal and I have loads from 1200-1275 that seem to group decent with those but I'm looking at buying cast bullets in the future rather than the plated to save some $$ and possibly find a bit more accuracy


I can hit  over 1400fps with a 180grain in my 6" barrel, but my intent is for a lower speed for range fun and save the high speeds for hunting and field protection


any knowledge will help---thanks again

[sqlbullet]

I would try .401's with good lube.  In "range fun" loads, if the bore is nice and uniform, it will probably be fine.  Softer bullets are more likely to work well than hard bullets*.

But, if you have issues with excessive leading, you will know the first thing you need to look at is bullet fit.

*Softer bullets are more likely to obturate, or "bump up" and seal the bore.  Super hard bullets won't do that, especially with "range fun" pressure levels.  This increases the chance of blow-by and plasma cutting/melting.

[Texashogman]

what are your thoughts on coated vs lubed bullets?? there are several places that don't charge any extra for the coated vs lubed bullets

--- each company has a different recommendation on "max speed" for their plated and cast lead bullets (anywhere from 1200-1600), but most say there is basically no limit for coated bullets at pistol speeds

[sqlbullet]

I really like the idea of powder coated bullets.  I have done a bunch of my own, but I haven't landed on a technique I love yet.  Once my shop is completed I may just set up a dedicated ES powder coat section.

But, I just lube my bullets for revolver.  38/357 and 44 bullets just get lube it with my own variation of Felix Lube (extra crayons for color and to make it a bit harder).

For 10mm if the price is the same, I would say lube them up.

[TXCOONDOG]

I second what has been posted. Powder coat and/or hi-tek (not the same)has thier limitations as they will lead just as bad as lube bullets if fit (.001-.002" over diamater), BHN, velocitites and pressures are not right.

Whether you cast your own or buy cast, this is a great place to learn about cast bullets:

http://www.lasc.us/Fryxell_Book_Contents.htm

[TXCOONDOG]

For anyone new to slugging a bore; you can also slug your barrel using the egg shape lead fishing sinkers as they are made from soft lead.

Lots of youtubes on "how to"

[Texashogman]

For anyone new to slugging a bore; you can also slug your barrel using the egg shape lead fishing sinkers as they are made from soft lead.

Lots of youtubes on "how to"

you can also make your own slug by melting dead soft lead into a once fired case from you gun ---works really well --- pull the lead slug from the case with a kinetic bullet puller --- slug pops right out ,  ready to slug your bore