Hi guys,

I've been shooting 210gr SWC and TC bullets with 7.0gr of Unique. I like it a lot because it is very accurate and is easy on me too. There is NO leading with this load, which is a big bonus.

I've got BlueDot that I want to use up....
How much do I use so that I don't get any leading?

This data is from the Lyman Cast Bullet, 3rd edition, 4" test barrel. I am including both the Unique and Blue Dot loadings so that you can compare them to your current loading. Blue Dot, like Unique, is easily ignited and burns well at low pressures so reduced loadings below the recommended start don't cause problems. Leading problems in handgun cartridges are usually due to bullet fit problems or too hard of a lead alloy, not to high pressures. Even light loads in a rifle are at higher pressure than the maximum in most handgun cartridges. If you aren't seeing any leading with Unique, I wouldn't expect you to see any leading with Blue Dot; even at maximum loads.

41028 bullet, 212 grain, an old round flat nose design, OAL 1.586
Blue Dot
start 12.2 grains for 1041 fps
max 15.4 grains for 1333 fps
Unique
start 8.2 grains for 998 fps
max 10.7 grians for 1217 fps

410610 bullet, 210 grain SWC gas check design, OAL 1.575 so more of the bullet is inside the case
Blue Dot
start 11.4 grains for 1003 fps
max 14.6 grains for 1170 fps
Unique
start 7.8 grains fo 979 fps
max 10.4 frains for 1214 fps

410459 bullet, 220 grain SWC, OAL 1.700 so has least amount of bullet inside case even though it's heavier than previous two bullets
Blue Dot
start 13.0 grains for 1100 fps
max 16.0 grains for 1359 fps
Unique
start 8.1 grains for 970 fps
max 11.2 grains for 1261 fps

For an equivalent load to your 7.0 grains of Unique, I would try 10.0 grains of Blue Dot.

I have shot the Lyman #410610 220-grain gas-checked SWC over 14.0 grains of Blue Dot and achieved good results. I was getting about 1225 fps out of a six-inch Model 57. I thought 12 grains worked pretty well, but I wanted more velocity. I have since moved on to Alliant 2400 as my powder of choice in the .41 Mag.

My standard FUN load for .41 mags is 15grs of Blue Dot and a Lyman 410459. This bullet is a true 'Keith-style' 220gr SWC which carries a lot of weight in the long nose , making for a shorter shank in the case , which leaves more room for powder.

My bullets are cast from 50/50 - linotype / wheelweights , water quenched. Sized .411

Leading depends more on yer alloy , sizing and lube.