lasercast/hard cast in carbine - .357mag?

[_N4Z_]

I've got a bunch of Lasercast 158gr rounds that I have been loading for a GP100. Have used 2400, Unique, and Bulleye. All work well, though Unique is still sooty, even though they claim it's cleaner on the jug.

My question is what are good loadings for an 18" carbine. How much velocity can the Lasercast take? I load them to about 1200fps in the revolver. Are the same loads going to be OK in the longer barrel at the 400+ higher velocity, or should I download for the rifle?

 

[Envisaged]

I use Oregon Trail Laser cast in both my GP100 and my 1894CS - 20".

For 158gr and up to 180gr I use 'lil gun powder for both loads. You won't be dissappointed.

 

[loadedround]

I have pushed that same 158 gr Laser Cast bullet to almost 1100fps(chronographed) from my 61/2'' Blackhawk without the slightest sign of leading. Give it a try with a dozen rounds and see what happens. I do believe you are close to pushing the no leading problen at that speed however.

 

[Envisaged]

I disagree. I use a stout load in the rifle that is around 1800fps without any major leading issues. I beleive they say they are fine out to about 2000fps without leading.

If you are overly concerned you can get them with gas checks.

 

[Steve C]

Laser cast are pretty hard bullets and lead bullets at velocities close to 1,700 fps shouldn't be a problem. The Lyman data I have backs off about 1/2 grain from maximum pistol loads for the rifle. While you don't say if your velocities are load book approximations or chronographed results, you pistol loads should work fine unless you are within that 1/2 grain from maximum, then back off a bit.

Shoot a few and examine the barrel for leading. If you get leading at the muzzle end the problem is likely running out of bullet lube in the longer barrel. A simple fix is to use an additional light coat of Lees liquid Alox or other tumble lube over the factory hard lube.