44 magnum plated bullet data

[PinnedAndRecessed]

I'm loading 240 grain plated bullets manufactured by West Coast Bullets. I assume they are similar/identical to Ranier products. I want to load them to the mildest velocity practical for plinking.

Ranier says simply use lead bullet data.

My Speer manual says I can go as low as 6.5 grains Unique for a 240 grain lead bullet.

Any suggestions as to how low I can go before danger of detonation?

 

[Steve C]

Look to the .44 special data for low velocity loads. The small difference in case length doesn't make enough difference in case capacity to cause a significant difference in velocity or pressure.

 

[PinnedAndRecessed]

According to Speer, 44 special load for a lead 240 grain bullet with Unique is 5.7 grains powder.

BTW, how real is the danger of detonation?

 

[BluesBear]

Any suggestions as to how low I can go before danger of detonation?

The bullet will stick in the bore first.

Detonation in handgun ammo from too small of a powder charge is an urban myth.

 

[Ranger J]

If you can get a hold of a Lee loading manual I believe it also has information on loading plalted bullets.
RJ

 

[Ben Shepherd]

One little note:

Those plated bullets are great plinkers-but watch your crimp. Keep it on the light side. If you crimp too heavy you will rip the plating off. Result? lousy accuracy, and bad leading.

As for your question, any lead bullet data should be fine.