load data for cast bullets in 7.62x54?

[mattri]

Looking for load data for the 7.62x54r using cast bullets. Saw that Hodgdon has a few loads listed- is there a rule of thumb when using jacketed load data for cast bullets? Thanks, Matt.

 

[KevinThomas]

Mattri,

the rule for using cast bullets with jacketed data is; don't. Most loads for jacketed bullets are far more intense than those suitable for cast and will wind up stripping in the lands, leading the bore and giving horrible accuracy. Unless you're using paper patched bullets or somthing similar, your upper speed limit with cast (and hard cast with gas checks at that) is about 2000 fps. No problem though, as there's plenty of data around for this combination. Lyman shows data in their current manual for a 200 grain bullet (their #314299), and I can probably turn up some others. What bullet are you wanting to use here?

 

[mj2evans]

Go over to castboolits.com - you will find way more than you ever wanted to know. I shoot some lead in rifles and good accuracy is not just about powder charge. Lead bullets need to fit throat and groves well - you need to slug bore to get an idea of what size bullet you need (a 91/30 Mosin in 762x54R can be 309 to 314 or more). If just drop a 170g .309" sized slug in your gun I bet you will be disapointed. Lee manual has reduced lead loads for 308 Win that can help you or you can use the military case "standard" load of 16g 2400 and a 150-200gr bullet. Some people say its nuts to shoot pistol/shotgun powders in a military size case but I (and lot more knowledgable shooters) have been doing it and its a great practice load (I have used 2400 and Unique (about 10gr) in 30-30, 308, 762x54, and 30-06). Many "rifle" powders can be used also but I have such good results with 2400 at 100 yds that I have stuck with it (and you load a lot of shells with 16gr form a pound of powder).

 

[artbosco]

Looking for load data for the 7.62x54r using cast bullets. Saw that Hodgdon has a few loads listed- is there a rule of thumb when using jacketed load data for cast bullets?

Regardless of whether you're using cast or jacketed bullets, I've ALWAYS found that the best source of load data on either type of bullet is the Bullet Manufacturer.

Most have developed many different loads for all the bullets they make, using a variety of powders, and then specifying which one is the accuracy load and which one is the best hunting load.

A phone call to one of their ballisticians can usually get the data emailed to you. I usually get the data within 10 minutes or less of my request.

 

[bheadboy]

never, never use jacked loads of any kind with cast bullets,the lub, softness of the bullet, all reduce the fiction and the heat of higher pressure loads can melt the base of the bullet.

if you do use gas check cast bullets, you can shoot higher velocities, but still do not load with jacked loads.

Lyman has the best cast bullet loading manual in my opinion. I have used their data for 60 yr and never had a problem, There are other web sights but i liketo have the manul to read and review.l.

Bob

 

[mattri]

Great replies, thanks. The barrel slugged out to .314 so I'm probably going to start with some Beartooth Bulletsin that diameter. Will keep looking at various loads and determine where I want to start.

 

[2506]

The Lyman 48th manual has load data for a cast 200 gr gas checked lead bullet for the 7.62X54R. Accurate XMP 5744 is the suggested most accurate powder. Start load is 20.0 grs for 1513 fps Max load is 32.5 grs for 2153 fps and it is listed as the most accurate. Velocity came from 26" barrel and Norma cases and Fed 210 primers were used.