Which data to use for plated bullets?

[PDL]

OK,
Jacketed bullets are usually a bit smaller diameter than lead bullets for any particular caliber. And there's a pretty big difference in the load data for an equal weight bullet. So where do plated bullets fit in? They seem to be a smaller diameter roughly equivalent to a jacketed bullet. So should the jacketed data be used to work up a load. I know the basics should be followed, like backing off etc. But which load do you back off of?

 

[Bearcat74]

I use lead data for mine, but I am just shooting them from .38's.

 

[Vulcan Bob]

I do the same as Bearcat74, also at Berry's web site they reccomend useing lead bullet data.

 

[505Gibbs]

I'll add the third comment for use of the lead data - its only a flash plating so its quite thin.

 

[Skip Sackett]

I use lead data too but the reason is because that is what most plated bullet manufacturer's suggest you do!

Take a trip to Berry's or Ranier's website and look for data for their bullets. It will say, "Use lead data and stay below magnum velocities with our bullets" somewhere on their site.

Having the right answer is not as important as knowing WHY it is the right answer!

I can tell you this too, it will depend on the firearm you are shooting them out of. If you have a rough bore, you are going to have a hard time with plated bullets and accuracy. Their plating is not as thick nor forgiving as a true jacketed bullet.

That being said, there are some pretty hot (as in popular) bullets out now that I think are just like plated, Speer Gold Dots. Their "jacketing" is thin and when they are made into a HP you look right at the lead core of the bullet. Ranier's plated hollow points to the same thing. Berry's aren't like that and the plating is much thicker. Still, they have less than a jacketed bullet.

In my Glock 22 I use a 180gr Berry's PHP over 6.6gr of SR4756. It is accurate and develops right at 1000fps. The extra plating will work nicely on heavier skinned animals, like the perp that is wearing a leather coat that he stole of his last victim! These babies will sail right through that hide and hit vital organs every time!

Here is a picture of what I use:

Here is a picture of the Ranier HP:

 

[Bearcat74]

Also, when I crimp mine I use the Lee Factory Crimp Die turned about 1/16th of a turn, just enough to take the flare out so the plating doesn't crack.