303 bullet selection for Lee-Speed (Metford)

[ResearchPress]

Having spent many years shooting primarily black powder (muzzle and breech loading - long range out to 1200 yards), I’m looking to load for my recently acquired Lee-Speed (Metford rifling). I have some bullets that came with the package I bought, but will need to replace in due course. Most shooting likely at mid-range 300-600 yards, but occasional outings to 1000 yards. I will be looking to shoot the rifle in competition from time to time. I am happy with load development, but is there a consensus on which bullet make / type / weight gives the best results with Metford type rifling?

I have read some internet chatter about boat tail bullets potentially causing erosion. This seems to have arisen with the Mk. VIII ammunition(?). With modern powders, how significant an issue is it today? Accuracy aside, need I be concerned about using boat tail bullets in a Metford rifled Lee-Speed?

I have Viht. N140 to hand.

Thanks.

David

[dromia]

I would not worry about the erosion tale especially with modern powders.

However when I used to use condom bullets flat based ones performed far better in my Metford barreled Long Lee and Lee Speeds.

I suspect that they set up better at start pressure into the shallow Metford rifling.

[ResearchPress]

Thanks for the helpful feedback.

David

[dodgyrog]

How about a 200gr cast boolit sized to .416" diameter andgas checked?

[ResearchPress]

Quite happy to try cast bullet in due course - any suggestions on mould / alloy? (And no, I haven't yet slugged the bore).

Thanks,

David

[dodgyrog]

NOE do the best mould by far - I have quite a few of them. 316299 I think is the best mould.

[ResearchPress]

Thanks. Will keep an eye out for when they're back in stock.

David

[Strangely Brown]

David, you may have some success with the .311 174gr flat base bullet from BES; produced in the UK and available unlike so many American bullets at the moment.
Are you doing the HBSA mid range on the 18th September?

[ResearchPress]

Mick,

I have some of those bullets on order from BES (along with some of the heavier ones). Thanks. Lots of development work to do, and not so much range time left this year! Sadly, it’s unlikely I’ll be able to get to the HBSA shoot this year - enjoyed it last year even if I was the only one shooting black powder target rifle. I’m already booked at Bisley the following weekend for a club shoot. Will be at the Trafalgar too - shooting muzzle loading and BPCR.

I posted some pics and info. re. the rifle in this thread: Lee-Speed (Match Rifle)

David