Loaded my first cast bullets

These handloads consist of 250 grain Cast Performance WFNGC bullets, H110 powder in different increments, Federal Large Pistol primers, and Starline cases.

Due to the short barrel of my 41 Magnum reducing the potential muzzle velocities, I decided to try out some cast bullets. In spite of having all the components and dies for months, I've only now figured out the reason for the Blackhawk's inaccuracy that has plagued me all year. Now that I have, though, I can finally start testing proper hunting loads.

Two things I've learned loading these bullets: I need to flare the case mouths more before seating the bullets, and I need to use less crimp since the cases bulged slightly but noticeably.

good job

Loading for my 357 Maximum, I had to have some work done to my die set. After getting enough bell to seat my cast bullets, I was having an issue getting the case into my RCBS Seater die. After looking it over, I noticed almost no bell. Same with my Roll Crimp Die. I seat and crimp in two stages on my 550 Dillon. I also have a newer RCBS Taper Crimp Die, and it has a nice bell to it. I ran them by the machine shop a while back and had them belled with a carbide cutter. My CVA Scout 357 Maximum seems to like my NOE 360-180 bullets pretty well. I am tempted to hunt with them.

Bob