SNS Cast Bullets - .380 ACP 95 gr. Coated Bullet Load Information

[tgtmasterchuck]

I just ordered some SNS Cast Bullets for .380 ACP:

 

95 grain Lead Round Nose - Polymer Coated

 

Does anyone have experience loading this bullet?  If so, what have been your results?  Would you share your load data with me?  The powder I primarily use is Unique.

 

I have been shooting a 95 gr. FMJ bullet.  I anticipate reducing that load by 10% with this Molly Coated bullet unless someone has better data.  

 

I have had good luck shooting Molly Coated Bullets in my .45 ACP and decided to give these a try.

 

Thank you!

[NeveSSL]

I'd be curious to know how they turn out, too.   :)

 

They don't seem to have any more in stock... do you mind if I ask how much they cost?

Brandon

Edited January 25, 2016 by NeveSSL

[leroy]

We've loaded some hard cast lead with 4.1 to 4.3 grains of Unique... They shoot very well thru the Sig 238... Check here...

http://handloads.com/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=380%20ACP&Weight=All&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source=

 

leroy

[Westwindmike]

I use AA5 in all my cast boolit loads in my 380 Bersa.

Load data here:

 

http://www.accuratepowder.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/WesternLoadGuide1-2016_Web.pdf

[tgtmasterchuck]

Thanks to everyone for your input.  I have been getting some advice from the Cast Boolits forum.  Not so much load examples as loading technique.  My RCBS seater mangles the nose of the bullet.  I stopped loading after a few rounds.  Advice so far is to increase my bell to accommodate the softer bullet (I have only loaded FMJ's so far) and try using a 9mm seater (in the attempt to find a seater shape that more closely matches the bullet).  I will provide feedback when I get a chance to load and shoot.  

 

leroy,

 

Thank you for the load information.  I had been using 4.0 gr. of Unique under a 95 gr. JHP.  I planned on starting at 3.6 gr. (-10%) and work my way up.  Since these are coated, I think I should be able to increase past 3.6 grains depending on signs of pressure, slide function and accuracy.

 

tgtmaster

[Caster]

I'm with the flyin' man Mike, Accurate #5 butters my bread for small handgun loads.  Meters smooth as water, very consistent and cost effective.   

 

I would find data for any 95g cast bullet and work up from there looking for accuracy and flawless function.  With a coated bullet you can slide right on up the scale to jacketed data but I'd stay away from upper tier charge weights unless you do some very thorough testing.  It would probably be a waste anyway, you'll find all you're looking for before you get that high.  

 

I load a 100g cast bullet for my runnin' buddy.  Its cast from water quenched WW"s so they're fairly hard.  I use Titegroup and they surprised me for penetration.  We wrapped a thick winter coat around three milk jugs of water.  Went through the coat and the first milk jug and just barely penetrated the second.  Thats sufficient for any two legged douche that needs help reconsidering his life choices.  

Edited January 27, 2016 by Caster

[NeveSSL]

Are you casting your own bullets, Caster?  That almost feels goofy to ask.  Haha!

 

Brandon

[Caster]

You answered your own question it appears.

[NeveSSL]

I thought so, but wanted to confirm.  :)

Brandon