[s_irwin23]

For any that have experience and can help I'm curious about a few things. Initially why does everyone using reduced loads used cast bullets? Are reduced loads safe to use with regular jacketed bullets? I have found many people using reduced load recipes in their 22 hornet using blue dot and 45 grain bullets, but could a person use red dot? I have had good luck using starting loads of lil gun and pistol primers for light loads, but nothing near under 2,000 fps like people using blue dot claim is possible. Chime in if you have done any of this.

 

[Reloader]

Cast bullets tend to lead up when fired at high velocity. I have loaded the Hornet for years but only use mid range velocity loads. Hornet cases tend to crack and split for some reason more than others, probably thinner walled. I have used 2400 mostly but have used Unique. Blue Dot, Red Dot and Green Dot were mainly shotgun powders and the color indicated the burn rates.

 

[22lrfan]

You have to be very careful using reduced loads with jacketed bullets. There is more friction between a jacketed bullet and the barrel than between a cast bullet and the barrel. A reduced load that shoots ok with a cast bullet may result in a jacketed bullet sticking in the bore. That will be bad news when you fire the next shot.

 

[Beladran]

i got a 22 hornet mold that has your name on it!

 

[s_irwin23]

What materials and equipment would I need to make cast bullets aside from the mold?

 

[Beladran]

o lord lots. ingots, molds, casting pot, wood spoons, wood mallet insulated leather gloves, sizer, lube, gas checks if your pushing them fast. im sure i left out something

 

[s_irwin23]

Just for those interested, I tried Hodgon's reduced load recipe using trial boss, and its sweet in my ruger. Even using jacketed bullets it takes the sound down to about the sound of a mild firecracker.