This photo shows the second monoblock that I have for this project. In front of it are the three cartridges that I am trying to choose between for it. On the left is the .357 magnum, which I already load for. 14 grains of WW 296 drive the 150 grain Keith style bullet, cast out of linotype, at 1500 fps from a 6.5" barrel, so probably about 1800 fps from 24" bbls. I'd have to buy two new barrels and they'd set me back about $500.00. There would be the advantage of carrying both a rifle and a pistol in the same chambering.

The middle round is the .32-20 Winchester, a fine old cartridge which I've never owned. I think that I can pick up a pair of .303 barrels from 1910 Ross rifles, with excellent bores, for about $150.00. The 115 grain Lyman bullet, cast in linotype, can probably be driven at around 1800 fps as well. I would have to part with an additional $250.00 for a mould, handles, sizer die, top punch, shell holder, and loading dies.

On the right is the .218 Bee, another fine old, though largely forgotten cartridge. I see quite a few used .224 barrels for sale at gun shows so can probably pick up a pair for about $150.00. As with the .32-20, I'd have to spend about an additional $250.00 for all of the same loading equipment.

As info, I'm leaning towards the .32-20. It would be dynamite on turkeys, coyotes, etc! I'd be interested to hear others' thoughts on the matter and reasons why? I want a small, low-intensity, rimmed cartridge. I also want to shoot cast lead bullets which are cheap to make and allow for unlimited shooting.