I've never loaded plated bullets, but have recently picked up some 9MM plated (not coated) bullets at Holiday discounts. For trial, I got 3 different types and/or weights. One brand is .356 & the other is .355.
These will be for plinking & informal target shooting, loaded to approx 1,050 fps.
My question really is related to expanding/seating and crimping. Anybody have experience loading plated bullets on their Stars? Any particular advise on expanding (I have a stock Star 9MM expander plug), or on crimping (have a stock Star 9MM taper crimp)?
Has anyone found it beneficial to use a modified or 'custom' shell expander plug (i.e. - steeper taper or M-Style) to avoid scraping the plating? Any need to champher the inside of the case mouth, something I usually don't do for pistol cases.
Thanks for sharing your experiences.
