When I need to firm up any mix (soft lead or whatever) I use linotype. In my experience, a ratio of 1/2 lb of pure linotype to every 1lb of soft lead (2:1) is sufficient to raise the BHN up to 12 for air cool and 14 for water cool. This hardness is slightly softer than Lyman #2 but sufficient for most pistol and slower moving rifle calibers. You can also add 5% tin and 5% antimony, but I have never had antimony set aside thus I have never done it that way.
Honestly, I like soft having a supply of soft lead for my homemade slugs, buckshot and .45 caliber loads (except .454 Casull).
FYI, yesterday I only picked up what feels like only 30 or so lbs of lead. It wasn't even close to 100 lbs as stated. I had to comb through aluminum and other "trash" and pick out what I could use. Oh well, 30 lbs is a good score anyway.
Nope. The dies, book, and calipers have shipped though. I should get them Tuesday when I go back to work.I used dial calipers since I started. I own a digital caliper but don’t remember ever using it. I just through it in the basket in one of my many trips to harbor freight!
Did you get your press yet?
Ho
How big a pot do I need to mix that 2:1? I have the Lee 10#, iirc. Will that work? Slowly?
When I need to firm up any mix (soft lead or whatever) I use linotype. In my experience, a ratio of 1/2 lb of pure linotype to every 1lb of soft lead (2:1) is sufficient to raise the BHN up to 12 for air cool and 14 for water cool. This hardness is slightly softer than Lyman #2 but sufficient for most pistol and slower moving rifle calibers. You can also add 5% tin and 5% antimony, but I have never had antimony set aside thus I have never done it that way.
Honestly, I like soft having a supply of soft lead for my homemade slugs, buckshot and .45 caliber loads (except .454 Casull).
FYI, yesterday I only picked up what feels like only 30 or so lbs of lead. It wasn't even close to 100 lbs as stated. I had to comb through aluminum and other "trash" and pick out what I could use. Oh well, 30 lbs is a good score anyway.
What was your load? I just picked up some brass but haven't picked up a bullet for it yet. I've gotta do a bunch of 223s first.
110gr half jacket? Was thinking about trying those Hornady ones.15g w296
Brass trimmed to 1.286.
110gr half jacket? Was thinking about trying those Hornady ones.
Sent from my LM-G820 using Tapatalk