Question for Bullet makers with 30 cal Carbide Dies

[Ed N]

This question is specifically for bullet makers making 30 cal 118 gr bullets concerning when their carbide dies were new.

- How much lube did you uses when Core Seating? & how long did you tumble them.

- How much lube did you use before Point Up & how long did you tumble?

- Did you see any diffrence on Paper if you used less lube or more.




Thanks for your help,
Ed

[Randy Robinett]

Originally Posted by Ed N

This question is specifically for bullet makers making 30 cal 118 gr bullets concerning when their carbide dies were new.

- How much lube did you uses when Core Seating? & how long did you tumble them.
With a anhydrous lanolin:lard-oil mixture (or, the Rich Griffen formula anhydrous lanolin: NeatsFoot Oil), which, at room temperature, is about the consistency of butter, I'd begin with 2.0 gr. to about 1500 jackets. This presumes J4 jackets - for Sta-Moly,or, Bart's, you may need a little more. Tumble for about 20 minutes. If the cored jackets eject without effort, and many stick on the core-punch, reduce the lube; this presumes that you are comfortable with the punch/jacket fit. If ejection is difficult, add a little - a couple of 1/10Ths of a grain is a fair %age. increase/decrease.

- How much lube did you use before Point Up & how long did you tumble?
Before pointing, you'll probably need around 4.5-6.0 gr., and tumble for about 15 minutes (time is arbitrary). I regard lube as a, "necessary evil": the least amount which assures ejection without sticking in the die is what I shoot for. Others will have differing, and valid opinions - these things vary - listen to your dies . . . they are a little like barrels. I know people who simply begin with about 7-8.0 Gr., seating and pointing without a hitch; that, "ain't for me."

- Did you see any difference on Paper if you used less lube or more.
Only you will be able to answer this question - it pays to learn the territory and understand the variables. If you're intent is bench-rest quality bullets, uniformity is king. Obtain and use a good micrometer and some standards, with which to maintain/verify calibration.
Be anal. Keep records.

Thanks for your help,
Ed

Comments in RED, within your quote. Good shootin'! RG

[Ed N]

Randy, Thanks for your answers, this is exactly the info I was looking for. I am using Sta-Moly Jackets. I make a 1000 at a time, so will adjust accordingly.

Thanks again,
Ed

[Utah Shooter]

Thanks Randy! That should inform most, varying weight of jacket right? I do not make 30 cals yet but I bet this would correlate to 22 cal as well. I appreciate your time.