First attempt at powder coating

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  • Last Post 25 May 2018
JeffinNZ posted this 21 May 2018

While in Indiana my host showed me how he powder coats bullets.  I have been meaning to try it for some years but this was the first opportunity.  I cast some 311291's for my Husky .30-30 in range scrap then gave them two coats of powder.  Last week I loaded them with a Freechex III Cu gas check over 22gr Benchmark (same load as I shoot under a CBE bullet of the same weight) and shot them on Sunday at 50m.  Pretty happy given iron sights and zero load development.  Velocity should be about 1750fps.  Pretty sure the lowest shot was my focus as I am guilty of looking at the target sometimes and past the front sight.  Barrel was spotless after shooting.  Might just be sold on this process.

Cheers from New Zealand

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awelton85 posted this 24 May 2018

I'll second the Eastwood. I powder coat all my 309-230-5R bullets, and after I tried Eastwood I threw two pounds of Harbor Freight powder in the trash.

I only have to shake them by hand for about 20 seconds, then I throw them in the toaster at 350F for about 12-14 minutes. One coat and done.

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GP Idaho posted this 21 May 2018

Jeff: As most here know, I'm a big fan of the PC process. I won't offer unsolicited advice here but would be happy to compare notes if you would like.   Quality powder is the most important factor and two coats shouldn't be necessary unless you need the build for sizing purposes. You'll love the cleanliness of PC not only in the barrel of your guns but also in your reloading tools. Great to be able to use micrometer seating dies, bullet feeders and such without gumming up the works.  Best.  Gp

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JeffinNZ posted this 21 May 2018

GP: what brand of paint do you recommend? I agree that one coat should suffice.

Cheers from New Zealand

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GP Idaho posted this 22 May 2018

Jeff: I've had very good luck with Eastwood powders. For me, the clear or semi clear work the best. It's my belief that the color pigments in SOME colors interfere with the best covering. Mirror Black covers well and looks very nice on the finished rounds but for me it takes an electrostatic gun for that one.  There is a Vendor over at "Boolits"  Smoke4320 that specializes in quality powders and can be reached at their Swappin' and Sellin'  Threads.  I've never heard a bad review on his products and recommend them. Gp

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TRKakaCatWhisperer posted this 24 May 2018

awelton85 --  THANKS!   I have a jug of powder (from work) and you have given me the instructions (350f for 12-14min) that I didn't have.  (we throw away several cubit feet of the stuff every Friday - to keep fresh powder on the production line at all times.)

NOW to find time to play with it!

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GP Idaho posted this 25 May 2018

I may be a bit overly careful and it does depend on manufactures suggestions as powders vary a bit but I bake @ 400 degrees for Twenty minutes. As with everything in our  craft test and see what works best for you. I've forgotten a batch in the oven and baked them for almost an hour,  it did no harm. Good score on the left over powder. Gp

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