Lead-core, not bi-metal .223 question....

[Skans]

I'm looking to purchase bulk .223/5.56 ammo. Cheap. I do not care about performance. But, it must be lead-core, not bi-metal. I have plenty of the bi-metal cartridges, but the indoor ranges have really clamped down on using this stuff. So, I need some acceptable, cheap range ammo.

1. Does any of the steel-cased stuff have lead (not bi-metal) bullets?
2. If the answer to 1 is "No", then what is the cheapest bulk .223/5.56 ammo with lead bullets.

 

[Jim Watson]

Psst. Most econoball has lead cores. The "bi-metal" term applies to the jacket; copper plated steel. Privi and Wolf Gold are the least expensive copper jacket ammo I see.

 

[Skans]

The problem is that some are advertised as "lead-core" bi-metal, but are actually steel-jacketed lead-core bullets. This can be tested with a magnet.

 

[Jim Watson]

That's what "bi-metal" MEANS in these ads, copper plated steel jacket over lead core.

Does your range object to steel jackets or steel cores? Both, most likely, they are hard on bullet traps.

 

[Skans]

Both. No steel permitted in the bullet. Yes, I know what "bi-metal" means. The problem is I can't tell on the ammo retailers websites which ammo is bi-metal and which is not. For example, some of the Tula says "bi-metal", and then some different types just don't say.

Normally, I don't care about the bi-metal cartridges. But, I need the all lead/copper jacketed stuff as cheap as I can get it in bulk.

 

[2damnold4this]

Wolf Gold will pass your magnet test. I'm not sure if it's the cheapest.

 

[Skans]

It seems like you can get Wolf Gold for around $330 shipped if you look around some. That doesn't seem too bad. Thanks!

 

[mdemetz]

One vendor's description of Wolf Gold;

| Wolf Gold 223 | 55gr FMJ | Velocity: 3250 FPS | Brass Case | Boxer Primed | NO STEEL ANYWHERE |