Tester set up for testing a bullet. CabineTree LLC Lead Testers
Tester Directions (for lead and lead alloys ONLY)
Tester set up for testing a bullet.
Testing
an ingot.
Install the dial indicator on the holding rod and center its plunger on the spring bolt head. It will be at a slight angle. Adjust this using the nuts and washers on the rod. When properly set up, the dial indicator plunger should be slightly compressed slightly, centered and in line with the bolt. Rotate the dial face to "O". The small brass rod is the reference point for the screw markings.
TESTING: Run the screw point until it just touches the sample. For a bullet, this should be centered and preferably on a flat (if there isn't one, file a 1/4" flat for a better test). After the point just touches the sample, note the EXACT pointer mark, rotate the screw EXACTLY ONE TURN, and read the indicator. You have just made a test and it probably took less time than reading this. Note: On pure lead, read the dial quickly as the spring is strong and the point will continue in changing the reading. This isn't a problem on harder alloys.
NOTE: IF you use exactly the same procedure each time your results will be consistent. Varying the "first touch" will cause the most errors. Concentrate on that first touch. On hard bullets, they can literally be held in place by that touch, BUT on pure lead just a hint of a touch is correct. On pure lead any touch is penetration and it will give you high readings.
SUGGESTION: For new users, run several tests on the same bullets until you get the "feel" for it. This should be fairly fast and you will see the same reading within a point or two.
Points to consider: If you are trying to duplicate some old bullets, have they age hardened (or softened)?? Ingots will not read exactly the same as bullets. I have had the best luck on ingots by sectioning them and testing along the edge. Ingot surfaces are usually not smooth and throw off reading as well as the fact that they cool slower and density can be different due to varying shrinkage. Retesting the same bullet will only work if you file off the old mark and this can still throw the reading off. Hammering a bullet to retest it will NOT work
NOTE: The tester point is NOT hardened and it's shape is designed for lead alloys ONLY.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TEST HARDER MATERIALS. This can ruin the point and the testers accuracy.
Tester Hardness Cross Reference Cross reference table for tester readings.