Just acquired a very nice drilling in 16 gauge over 8mm JR. Would like to reload for it. It has the .318” bore. Anyone know of a source for suitable .318” bullets, preferably around 200 grs?
Julio,
The above sources are all good, in addition, you might check Buffalo Arms and Graf and Sons. Buffato Arms usually shows .318" bullets in around 3 weights, less than 200 grains. I often use 170 grain bullets in my various 8MMs for a little better balance between velocity and bullet weight. Graf & Sons imports ammo and components that you may find interesting. Some 8x57IR rifles can safely use bullets larger than .318", notwithstanding barrel groove diameter. The way to check this is to take a case that was fired in your rifle (not resized) and any bullet diameter that will fit easily fit into it can be used to load ammo for it. As usual for any change of components, start with reduced load and work up. Often we find we can use .320-.321" bullets and sometimes even .323". If the source of cases change, the test should be repeated with the new cases. As long as the case neck has room to expand and release the bullet, chamber pressures usually don't increase enough to be dangerous. The new " Flex-Tip" bullets for the 32 Win. Special seem to have a lot of promise. With the current shortage of all components, especially those with a low demand, you may find it necessary to resize larger bullets to fit. It is usually satisfactory to size a jacketed bullet to a smaller diameter, .005" or less (no partition or solid copper bullets, of course). More than .005" may result in the core becoming loose in the jacket. Cast bullets are another possible source of bullets. I like my cast bullets, when possible, to be about .002" over groove diameter. I hope you find some of this useful.
Mike
I load 8x57R/360 quite often along with 8X57IR and I have found the Woodleigh 200 grain to perform the best for me ahead of VV N140.
Serbus,
Raimey
rse
Raimey,
Hasn't Woodleigh gone out of business? The big bullet boys were lamenting it. BTY, I can use .3125" Remington bullets in my 8x57R/360 with original Berdan primed cases and save expensive bullets for other guns.
Mike
Well Ford, it burned to the ground and the word on the street was that they weren't going to rebuild. Then, it seems after some thought they decide to resurrect the business. But I have purchased lots of 100+ here and in Australia of said bullets. I have acquired quite a few.
Serbus,
Raimey
rse
Raimey,
Good foresight.
Mike