deadear dan
Member
I've read reports that have required 3mm (enlarged) flash holes for minimal loads such as less that 2.0 gr bullseye with 148gr hbwc in 38 special. What is the reason for the enlared hole and how do you go about doing it? thanks.
enlarged flash hole/38 cat sneeze load
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ArchAngelCD
Moderator, SWCA Member, Absent Comrade
I don't know where you read that but it's not common practice to enlarge flash holes for most reloading applications. If the powder charge is too light don't use it. Enlarging the hole may allow more flash to enter the case but it's not reliable IMO.
Alliant lists a Max charge of 3.1gr Bullseye under a 148gr HBWC. Reduce that charge by 10% for the starting load which gives you a charge of 2.8gr. A charge of only 2.0gr is dangerous and should not be used, even if you enlarge the charge hole to 3mm. (where did you get the 3mm number?)
Alliant lists a Max charge of 3.1gr Bullseye under a 148gr HBWC. Reduce that charge by 10% for the starting load which gives you a charge of 2.8gr. A charge of only 2.0gr is dangerous and should not be used, even if you enlarge the charge hole to 3mm. (where did you get the 3mm number?)
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DON'T DO IT!!!
As luck would have it, I'm reading Phil Sharpe's book from 1937 where he experimented with enlarging flash holes. A small increase in diameter dramatically increased the internal pressure to dangerous levels. It is unpredictable and can ruin your day in a hurry.
Like Angel, I'd like to see the source of that particular "wisdom".
As luck would have it, I'm reading Phil Sharpe's book from 1937 where he experimented with enlarging flash holes. A small increase in diameter dramatically increased the internal pressure to dangerous levels. It is unpredictable and can ruin your day in a hurry.
Like Angel, I'd like to see the source of that particular "wisdom".
Cdog
Member
More reliable ignition. With only a dusting of powder, the fire needs to chase the powder to find it.
As already posted, not something to recommend doing.
As already posted, not something to recommend doing.
Cerberus62
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The main reason for opening the flash hole for primer-only powered loads was to keep the primer from backing out and tying up the cylinder.
This was to be done only with primer powered wax or rubber bullets.
As pointed out already, it is extremely dangerous to do this with any load containing powder.
I have shot .38's with as little as 1.0 Bullseye and normal flash holes with no trouble, other than a stuck bullet every now and then cause of the light powder charge.
This was to be done only with primer powered wax or rubber bullets.
As pointed out already, it is extremely dangerous to do this with any load containing powder.
I have shot .38's with as little as 1.0 Bullseye and normal flash holes with no trouble, other than a stuck bullet every now and then cause of the light powder charge.
OP
deadear dan
Member
Thanks folks, I'll keep the flash holes standard.
The bullseye would not be good if it was to have a big back hole
the large hole was for BlackPowder loads . and as said the glue or wax loads. I drilled several out for the glue bullets . But there is no powder and I spray painted the heads
the large hole was for BlackPowder loads . and as said the glue or wax loads. I drilled several out for the glue bullets . But there is no powder and I spray painted the heads
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