Reloading .303

MosinNagantDisciple

Would it be possible to use 123 gr. FMJ 7.62x39 bullets (.310 dia.) instead of standard .303 (.311 dia.) bullets? I've found a source for them that is much cheaper than anything else currently available.

I should also mention accuracy is not a big factor, I'm looking for cheap plinking ammo.

bpost

Sure. BUT, thay might move in the case unless you reduce the expander ball size to meet the bullet size used. I shoot .308 Dia bullets in the 7.62X39. Accuracy is plinker acceptable.

richbug

The winchester .310 123's work really well in my SMLE's. I use Lee dies, and have had not trouble withe factory decapper/expander as is.

If you don't mind, what is your source?

Pearyw

They will work, but I am afraid the accuracy will be less. I don't know if the twist on an Enfield barrel will stabilize well with that light a bullet. My answer to cheap 303 shooting is a cast .311" 160 gr gas checked bullets. I use a Lee tumble lube bullet that I cast with good results. I load for about 1600 fps and get better accuracy than I get with jacketed bullets.

MosinNagantDisciple

quote:Originally posted by richbug
The winchester .310 123's work really well in my SMLE's. I use Lee dies, and have had not trouble withe factory decapper/expander as is.

If you don't mind, what is your source?


Scharch Manufacturing. $79 per 1000, shipped.

http://secure.cartsvr.net/catalogs/catalog.asp?prodid=2317384&showprevnext=1

mowart

I have to ask. Since it's .311 diameter, why call it a 303?

temblor

Same reason they call a .357" a 38 and a .429" a 44mag -- to confuse people.........[:D][:D]

richbug

quote:Originally posted by mowart
I have to ask. Since it's .311 diameter, why call it a 303?


the brits measured by bore diameter before rifling, in the US we use groove Diameter after.

richbug

I used their brass for my 44 specials. It is good stuff.