Types of Big Bore Cast Bullets
The types of big-bore cast bullets are varied. These bullets are typically used for reloading cartridges, or for black-powder firearms. They are a mixture of lead -- and other metals -- that are melted and poured into a bullet-cast mold.The types of bullets used for this endeavor are identified by shape, number of lube grooves, intended use of the bullets, weight and construction. Bullets are usually considered big-bore if they are .35 inches in circumference or larger.
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Shape
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The shape of the cast bullet is important in many ways. Some are used strictly for competitive target shooting, some are used for hunting and some are used for what is known as silhouette shooting. The most important shape to a cast bullet is the nose shape, or the tip of the bullet.
Wad-Cutter Tips and Flat-Nose Bullets
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The wad-cutter tip is a bullet with a flat surface; it is used for target shooting. The wad-cutter is not useful for long-range shooting due to its blunt design and aerodynamic inefficiency.
Flat-nose bullets are known as semi-wad-cutter bullets; they do not have a completely flat point. These bullets are generally cast for hunting. The larger point provides humane kills on game animals.
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Lead Balls and Slugs
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Round cast balls and slugs -- among the first projectiles ever fired from guns -- are usually made for large bore firearms. Due to their size and shape, they are not the best choice for long-distance shooting. Traditional shooters often use them on target ranges and in the field. Slugs and round balls have no lube grooves, but are sometimes lubed or used with a patch.
Round-Nose Bullets
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These are the second oldest known shape of bullets. When the round-nose was developed it was a huge step up in efficiency, as compared to the lead ball or lead slug. Due to its shape, it is more stable in flight than its predecessors.The round-nose is used for target practice and hunting. it is the most popular design, according to C.B. Schauntz, owner of a large sporting goods store in Montana.
Sharp-Pointed Bullets
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A sharp-pointed bullet is more aerodynamically efficient than other points. The pointed bullet is often used for long-range target practice or long-range hunting. It has a much flatter trajectory and is better at retaining inherent energy at longer distances. These bullet shapes are commonly referred to as Spitzer points.
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