Bullet Shape Question

[Taz]

When looking for load Data does bullet shape mater. For Example a Lead 200g SWC or Lead 200g RN would the load data be different for min and max knowing you would adjust between them for the sweet spot but would the range be the same?

[Xringshooter]

When you look at the load data (say in the Speer manual) you'll find that they have loads for different bullet shapes. They will probably be pretty close if the bullets are the same weight (and same caliber). That is why most handloaders have several different manuals for reference because most reloaders use several different manufacturers bullets and each manufacturer sets up loads for their particular bullets.

[Taz]

When you are using lead the data seems to be harder to find. Like the example I gave I can find all kind of data for the swc but not the rn

[Flash]

When you are using lead the data seems to be harder to find. Like the example I gave I can find all kind of data for the swc but not the rn

True, there is some difference, and it is in the bearing surface of the bullet - contacting the rifling. It is, in most cases, a miniscule difference, and would mean nothing to the average reloader/shooter.

The only place it will make any difference is in the quest for extreme accuracy, and when you are doing that you work up a load that is specific for the firearm/load combination anyway. In this case too, what you read in the book is a starting point, not an absolute.



Your original question was "When looking for load data does bullet shape matter?", and in practical reality, the answer is simply, "So very little that you would not notice it".



Flash

[mjporreca]

Bullet seating depth can also have a little bit of an impact. Less bullet out side the case but the same weight means higher pressure in the case. You might notice it if you are using full wad cutters that seat almost flush as opposed to round nosed.

[max384]

If you are having trouble finding load data for lead loads (try saying that three times fast), try this website:

http://www.handloads.org/loaddata/default.asp?

It has a wealth of information on reloading, and has the most comprehensive load data section I've seen anywhere (in books or internet).

[Brick]

For cast or swaged lead bullets and cast copper plated (like Ranier) use the same data for any bullet of the same caliber and weight. So for .45 ACP a 200gr truncated cone, round nose flat point, semi-wadcutter or flat metplat all would use the same load for any given powder.

Just remember to keep your cast loads at reasonable velocities to avoid leading.

[Taz]

Thanks All