[MRFranks]

I used to reload for a Marlin 1894 and a Colt clone SAA in .44-40, and more specifically with cast lead bullets by Beartooth (?). Both guns seemed to do okay with bullets that were sized .430 (both guns I "slugged" to establish they were both .429 across the lands). Never saw signs of pressure, but then I wasn't trying to create heavy loads--just cowboy loads. I read somewhere from a "gun guru" that when shooting cast bullets, they should be sized .001 over the bore diameter. Has anyone any experience with this? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[Logan2302]

If this is in writing anywhere it's probably in an old Lyman book, which I wish I had, ive generally accepted the .001" over ruler.

But keep in mind these bullet machines today can spit out unreal amounts of finished bullets per day. On a box of mass produced bullets, I think were lucky get a tolerance of + - ,001"

[jpattersonnh]

The correct size for .44-40 is .427 or .428. Marshall Stanton (Beartooth) makes some great bullets. I use an 1892 clone w/ 160gr cast lead and 205gr cast lead (200gr JSP for hunting). Same powder charge for both. It seems that the velosity is the factor for accuracy in .44-40. Sounds like you have modern sized bores, which is common w/ some manufacturers.

[robocop10mm]

If your barrel is .429 and .430 bullets work for you, you are one of the lucky ones. Many 44-40's have chamber dimensions that will not allow a bullet above .428 to chamber, even though the barrels are most commonly .429.

I cast a 200 gr RNFP for this caliber. I go a little softer than normal and size to .427. The softer alloy will obturate in the slightly larger bore and my SASS shooting friends love it.

[MRFranks]

Thanks guys, I failed to mention that I'm going to begin reloading for .44Special. Since I stopped reloading about 5 years ago, when we sold our house with a well appointed garage/workshop, and moved into a smallish townhouse. I've picked up some reloading equipment and would like to reload for the .44Spec--I still have several boxes of Beartooth .430 diam. bullets I'd like to load up for my Flat Top Ruger. My recollection is that Sam Fadala recommended going .001 over the land diameter for cast bullets. I suppose I can swap someone for some .429's if need be. Anyway--thanks again for your rapid responses. Happy Holidays to you all....

[Logan2302]

I'll tell you, I love to shoot 44 spec. And 45 colt!!!!! I plan to get more into these asap. They can be loaded to about any need, they are extremely accurate, and let's face it, they are two of the coolest large bore-lead bullet rounds there are!

[noylj]

With lead, larger is generally better as long as the round chambers.
You want a bullet that is at LEAST 0.001" over the groove-to-groove diameter of your barrel (for a revolver, the bullets need to be a slide fit through the cylinder throats and 0.001" over groove diameter).
0.430" sounds like a very good size for the .44-40.

[Creeker]

For rifles .001 over bore diameter is a good starting point.

For sixguns I like to size the bullet were it will push through the cylinder throats with a pencil.