Hi guys I'm a newbie on the cast bullet topic. I'm using a LEE .459-405-HB mold and it seems to be cast a bullet pretty much around .458-459 My question what size SIZER would be best to shoot this bullet in a Browning 1886 carbine 45-70? ALSO what would you suggest the best SMOKELESS powder/gr for a good Warm to Hot load without leading the barrel up to bad, am using WW for my lead source? Help me if ya can guys!
Thanks in advance
TD

PS Hope I posted the question clear enough....sorry if not :(

Did you slug the barrel? Really need that information to say for sure.

If in doubt, I personally would always go with the largest size that the mold drops, assuming it will chamber OK.

Hi haven't slugged the barrel... it really shoot Hornady 300 gr HPs great,(and there .458) shoots a clover leaf pattern at 50 yards. Just getting into the casting for $ savings and it's really fun once you get into it!
Thank you though.
TD

PS Also if anyone could suggest a different mold, from what I've learned on this forum bullets with gas checks are better for hotter loads? Was hoping to try some long range steel target shooting....

Hi haven't slugged the barrel... it really shoot Hornady 300 gr HPs great,(and there .458) shoots a clover leaf pattern at 50 yards. Just getting into the casting for $ savings and it's really fun once you get into it!
Thank you though.
TD

PS Also if anyone could suggest a different mold, from what I've learned on this forum bullets with gas checks are better for hotter loads? Was hoping to try some long range steel target shooting....
As Mike mentioned slugging the barrel is a good way to go. I have two of the other Lee molds for 45-70 (457-340-F & 457-405-F). I have gotten good results from the 405 grain bullet but am still working on a good load for the 340 grain bullet. Neither of these are gas check designs. Here is a link to Ranch Dog Molds. I don't have one of his molds but I have read of good results from those that do and they are also a gas check design.
http://www.ranchdogmolds.com/
Cary

Michael's molds are designed for hunting and the flat tips are intended for effective impact, not long range ballistics. For its limited cost, for long range give a try to the Lee pointed nose 500 grain bullet. It is not gas checked, but you can also use P-wads to get the same bullet base protection. P-wads are available from NECO (http://www.neconos.com/shop/?cart=210214&cat=16) or you can make your own from 0.060" LDPE sheet that you can buy from a plastic supply house. You can cut them using a sharpened case and a plastic mallet. If you want to make many, making a steel punch may be worthwile, but you'll need machine tools or a lot of ingenuity.