[Hog Buster]

There’s at least 7000 opinions on hardened (quenched) cast bullets. After using them for a while here’s my considered opinion.

Does it work? Yes, to a point, depending on alloy.

Is it necessary? In most cases it’s not, but in some it helps, others it hurts.

Are hard bullets more accurate? Not necessarily, it depends on the gun being used.

Do hardened bullets raise pressure? You couldn’t prove it by me, I’ve used both and saw no discernible difference.

Do hardened bullets work better in rifles than pistols? They seem to work best at velocities of around 1800 -2000 fps. If your pistol can burn them out that fast, go for it.

Will they stop barrel leading? Not if they’re sized wrong.

Can they help failure to feed or fire problems? Sometimes.

What hardness is the best? Depends on who you ask.

Do they make good hunting loads? Only if you’re looking for penetration, under certain conditions even penetration may be poor.

Do they make good hollow points? No.

How about target loads? Yes, for me, for others it’s debatable.

How can I find if they work for me? Trial and error, just like any other phase of reloading.

I have one rifle that performs better with hardened (quenched) cast bullets. A .375 Winchester, I also have a 45/70 than will not perform with any lead bullet, hardened or not. Go figure?

OK I’ve left some room for the other 6988 opinions, so let ‘em rip.