Dialing in a C Sharps 1885 45-70 BPCR

[Gunlaker]

Snocat, what diameter are those noses? I'm surprised that a 20:1 nose would engrave that hard, unless it was 0.450". But then the only bullets I've ever tried to recover were PP bullets so maybe they are the same for me.

In my CSA 1885 I've tried a 0.460" Brooks Creedmoor with a 0.449" nose and then the same bullet ( well actually a touch heavier ) but with a 0.450" nose. The 0.450" nose leaded the barrel, but the 0.449" didn't ever show any lead.

I'm also surprised that the 16:1 bullets were heavier ( unless I misunderstood your post? ). Generally a 16:1 bullet should be a few grains lighter than a 20:1, as long as you are using pure lead and pure tin.

Chris.