Idaholewis
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Jun 30, 2017
- Messages
- 7,287
- Reaction score
- 10,288
I received the 442-500 and had a chance to shoot them today along side the 442-380. The 500 appears to simply have a longer bearing surface and a similar or identical ogive. The 380 grain bullet ogive is about 60% of the overall length. The 500 grain bullet ogive is about 48% of the total bullet length. I thought the would shoot very differently because the center of gravity and motion should be in vastly different places. Here is what I found.
View attachment 14467View attachment 14469
I shot the group at just 39 yards. My range has a ditch from 39 to about 90 yards. I used the shorter distance so it should be more reflective of the load than the shooter trying to figure out his soule sight picture. The group size is essentially identical.
I am not sure how much of the group size is due to me. 80 (wt) grains is the only charge and the 45 cal wool wad is the only combo I have tried. I am going to order some 444 diameter bullets and see if the group will improve. Intuitively, I think the 442 shaped ogive should give a higher B.C.
How are you patching your Bullets?
You want to Patch them right up to the Bearing Surface, a very tiny bit Forward (a few thou) is ok, But I don’t advise going anymore forward of it than that
When you come around the Bullet with your 2nd Wrap you want the ends to JUST meet, You don’t want to go ANY past the 2nd Wrap, You are much better off to come up a tiny bit Short like this, I intentionally patch just Short a Few Thou
And lastly the Base, This is how i patch (Referred to as Short Patch) Center of the Bullet Base is Exposed. 1/8 Thick Wool Felt OP Wad on the Powder to Protect the Bullet Base MANY times i go Oversize on the Wool Felt (.50 Cal Wool felt in my .45s)