I am working on a plinking load for my Marlin. 150 gr Berry's plated bullet. I am loading 17 grains of accurate 5744. I am hoping for 1500 fps. I don't think I can hook my magnetospeed to it to get a velocity. Anyone know a rough velocity estimate? Thanks jim

In that instance you're relegated to trusting the loading manual's velocity prediction, or glom onto a chronograph that doesn't clamp to the muzzle. I've heard tell of guys mounting the Magnetospeed to the bench and carefully firing over it. I never tried that with mine though.

1500fps might be pushing it a bit with those bullets as far as leading goes. One way to find out.

According to Berry's these should be ok to 1900 fps. I don't know if I would trust them that fast but 1500 should be ok. The handful I test fired showed no problems.
The only load data i can find for 5744 (Western powders) shows a starting load of 18.5 grains with a 150 for around 1700 fps.

Ok, then maybe you should look at another powder. Unique has been the go-to powder for that velocity level for around 100 years now.

I might try unique. I went out on the ATV and shot a few today. My unscientific guestimate is 1600 at least. Recoil slightly less than factory. Also a lot of unburned powder in the barrel. I might try less 5744, I have a couple pounds and nothing else I use it for anymore.

Ok, I'm gonna show some more of my ignorance.....

First, I had never heard of Berry's Plated Bullets, but I looked it up and found out they dont recommend speeds over 1950 fps, for the 150 gr 30-30.

What is a plated bullet and why the reduced recommended speeds?

They are just a thin clad cast bullet. The plating helps with keeping the bore cleaner than uncoated lead. The plating isn't structural like on a jacketed bullet.

I'd also recommend Yondering's Shake and Bake Method of powder coating bullets in the Cast Bullet section. It might actually make a better alternative. I've tried Berry's bullets in a bunch of situations. They work great in pistols. However, when you start getting them cranked up in rifle-length barrels, the plating may not be thick enough.

1500 FPS is not going to be unreachable. Even gas-checked lead bullets should be able to stand that with the right alloy.

Learn something new every day.

Like shaman said, go with powder coat.


I'm loading a SnS casting 135gr bullet over a case filled with 9gr of Trail Boss. My 9yo grandson loves to shoot it and it is a good 100 yard or less deer load.

Haven't chronicled, but should be 2200-2300 fps.

9.8gr Unique and the same SnS PC 115gr was shooting 1 1/2" groups, 5 shots @50 yrds

Recoil was .22mag - ish, 9yo grandson loved getting to shoot the big gun.

Look at Trailboss.