Shooting lead with a Chrome Bore? 40 S&W

[Scrapper]

Has anyone used lead in a chrome bored pistol? Particularly I'm using a Stoeger Cougar 8040F. Was wondering if there are any drawbacks or is the chrome better than steel. Maybe there's no difference?

[handgunner356]

The chrome is mainly for corrosion resistance.

[Scrapper]

That's a good point, handgunner356. I haven't thought of that, I was however concerned with any wear on the chrome plating. I think the manufacturer claims they will last 30,000 rounds. I have one and I'm gonna see how well it does.

[Alk8944]

Originally Posted by Scrapper

That's a good point, handgunner356. I haven't thought of that, I was however concerned with any wear on the chrome plating. I think the manufacturer claims they will last 30,000 rounds. I have one and I'm gonna see how well it does.

It is principally for corrosion resistance, but it does impart considerable wear resistance also. Don't worry about wear caused by shooting Lead bullets, the barrel will last a lot longer with Lead than if shooting jacketed bullets. If it will go 30,000 shooting jacketed you will wear out the rest of the gun before the barrel if you shoot Lead bullets.

[handgunner356]

I could see the chrome wearing in 30K in something like a .223, but I would guess you need 50-100K in a handgun. The lead will wear it less because it seals the gases behind the round better.

[Scrapper]

Thanks for your input everyone. I'm glad I asked about this chrome bore. I am however extremely familiar with chrome bores in dirt bikes and the like but a gun is a wee bit different.