Lead purity question additional info.

[Jerry Reichert]

FROM J.D.R Additional information on non-pure lead balls. When I posted the question about using non-pure lead balls, I did not indicate my intentions. They are used strictly for target and matches, not hunting. Last week I took several sets of 54 cal. balls to the range and conducted a semi-scientific test. These test are from a Green Mountain barrel 32” long. I first shot balls made from wheel weights weighing 219.5 grains measuring .5296” from a Lee mould, utilizing 40 grains of GOEX FFFg and a .015 pillow ticking patch cut at the muzzle (home made with Borebutter lub.). At 25 yards the 5 shot group was 5/8” center to center. At fifty yards the same combination was 1 3/4” center to center. I then shot the same combination with factory Hornady .530 balls that measure .5309” and weighing 224.4 grains. The group remained about the same, maybe just slightly smaller. I then increased the powder charge to 45 grains with wheel weight balls and the group decreased slightly. I then increased to 50 grains of GOEX FFFg and the group went down to 1 1/8”. The range temperature was 55 degrees no wind and shooting from a bench rest. I single wipe between each shot with lub. therefore the loading of either ball is very easy. The patches from all test appear the be slightly burned at the lands. Additional testing with a 40 cal. will be conducted next week and I will report on the findings.

 

[Kentuckywindage]

110g 2g goex, .018 pillow ticking, wheel weight .530 round ball @ 71 yards. .54 flint lock

Bottom 2 shots were lightly seated on the powder. Next to shots in the black were slightly tamped down tighter. And the next 4 shots were seated tight until i felt the powder crush tightly.