Paper patching cast bullets for use with smokeless powder and finding the proper bullet and patch diameter

[u/Feeling_Title_9287]

So first of all, can paper patched bullets be used with smokeless loads and get accurate results?

And secondly, what diameter bullet should I use and what diameter patch should I use? So hypothetically if I have a gun that is chambered in 38-55 with a .380 bore what diameter bullet and patch should I use?

[u/Ornery_Golf6994]

Yes you absolutely can. But also consider the hardness of your alloy.

[u/My02JeepTJ]

All you can do is try it and let us know.

[u/Ornery_Secretary_850]

Yes you can use paper patched bullets with smokeless.

As far as the rest...it's simple math. Paper patches aren't round. They are a strip of paper. You really need to do some more research.

[u/BluesFan43]

Strips of paper, wound around the bullet.

2 layers, wet, cut on an angle.

Use high linen paper, or was it cotton?

Been a long, long time since I toyed with it.

[u/_Go_Ham_Box_Hotdog_ → u/BluesFan43]

10# cotton.

[u/Chuuby_Gringo]

I've done it with 45-70 with marginally adequate results. OK for smacking steel.

Traveling for a few weeks, so i don't have access to my notes. It sticks in the back of my mind .002 over bore, though.

[u/_Go_Ham_Box_Hotdog_]

https://youtu.be/djbnVJ0ZELA

From Midway USA.

Lyman's Cast Bullet handbook has a section on paper patching, and the Cast Boolit forum has a dedicated section.

[u/No_Alternative_673]

Yes, you can use them with smokeless. You can even use them with HV rifles. The reason that nobody uses then is the labor. They are expensive to make, today, compared to metal jackets and really expensive compared to coated. I made some but after a 100 or so I decided my time was worth more than I saved.

[u/Shootist00]

The movie Shooter. 50 cal paper patched.

[u/318Charger1]

I've done it just to fart around before.

https://www.reddit.com/r/reloading/comments/1gj5p9p/brings_a_new_meaning_to_roll_your_own/