My first wildcat and fire forming

[Grimstod]

Received my gun and barrels from the smith two days ago. Now I need to start fire forming them to the new improved case. Would like to use the COW method as perscribed here http://bulletin.accurateshooter.com/2012/02/tech-tip-fire-forming-with-pistol-powder/
But i also am wondering if i can use some of the powder i already have rather then buying a batch of pistol powder just for this one time deal. I have an ample supply of IMR 3031. Would that work?
In the article noted above they use pistol powder. But with this being a case that is twice the saze to begin with at 56gr loaded and being fire formed to 68gr, do you think IMR 3031 will be fast enough? Or should I still go get a can of pistol powder?

 

[JamesnTN]

It help to know what caliber you're forming from and to

 

[Grimstod]

Opps sorry. Anywy. 7.62x54rup to 7.62x45r Imrpoved. Ill post a link to a drwaing of it.

 

[Grimstod]

 

[jonbearman]

Did you use lothar walther barrels again?

 

[Grimstod]

No. This time i used a shilon. Finished out at 28in.

 

[expiper]

OP,,,you obviously have no fire form (FF) experience,,,,a case full of the type of powder that will normally be used in any ctg will not build pressure without a bullet,,,,however you can FF using a bullet,,,,but to FF without a bullet you need FAST powder (pistol/shotgun types ) ,,,,Roger

 

[mr45man]

I assume both barrels are the same?
I would Fire form with bullets, break the barrels in as you go.
1/2 the brass with each barrel.
John H.

 

[Grimstod]

Yes this is my first time doing this. : so i need to stop and pick up some pistol powder. Any recomendations? I know my rifle powders well but know nothing about the fast burning stuff.

 

[Billch]

I understand that you'd like to use the COW method. Why? To each his own. Don't over think this. You certainly don't have to justify your reasoning to me. However, I think the COW is a WOT (Waste Of Time) for your new chambering.

Barrel life is a concern with any barrel, right? They are a consumable. Brass is a consumable too. As I see it you should get about 3000+ rounds of life from one of your new barrels, or there abouts. How many times can you reuse a piece of brass? Lets say fifteen. Even at twenty that is, assuming 100 pieces of brass, times 20 firings equals 2000 rounds fired. You'd still be 1000 rounds ahead of the curve.

Lets face it, you don't have a barrel burner here. The COW method does have its place but this isn't one of them. It may be worth the 'fun-factor' to try it but I'd rather be shooting. Buy A box of some cheap-o heavy bullets and try it.

Don't make it so hard. Have fun.

B

 

[Grimstod]

This was made by my gun smith. I would prefer to keep barrel wear to a minimum. Plus by the time I get these all fire formed I will not have enough bullet left to load develop. Keep in mind that Berger bullets are still really hard to find right now. I prefer not to order online.

 

[Grimstod]

This is my third barrel for my switch barrel rig. I am just asking a lot of questions because this wildcat thing is new to me. I don't want to screw anything up or waist any time at the range.

 

[Ggmac]

Its a RIMMED case . Use std load with bullets , or get pistol powder .

 

[Grimstod]

Yes I love rimed cases.

Gmac, what pistol powder would you recommend? I know almost nothing about pistol powders.

 

[Ggmac]

I use Unique . The old NRA reloading guide has a couple of good articles on fireforming . I would use 30-06 specs for case capacity as a start .
I would seriously use a good std load , with bullet , to fireform . It kills 2 birds at once , fireform and barrel break in . Your POI will be close to after fireform .
Use the rimmed case to your advantage . Shoot std loads , break in barrel with them , use IMP cases , HAVE FUN !

 

[Grimstod]

Ok i am convinced. Thanks for the help Ggmac!

 

[Ggmac]

One last thing . Did you gunsmith headspace it off the rim or datum line ?

 

[Grimstod]

Off the rim. It will only close on Lapua brass. PPU brass will not fit because its rim is .002 thicker.