Seriously considering a .475 No. 2 that is regulated for 85 Cordite and 480 projectiles. Midway has Woodleighs but in searching I have only run across Bertram brass which I do not want to use if there is another alternative. Anyone with knowledge of another source of brass and dies? Thanks for any assistance.

Dutch

At one time ZjudgeG had some brass and a few loaded rounds.

Before they went out of buisness Jamison listed it. I don't know if they made a run or were just planning to prior to closing. If they ran it you may be able to find it.

Thank you, gentlemen. Found Horneber at Huntingtons as well. I made the deal on the John Wilkes in like new condition. Will post pics when I receive it. It's a sweet one.


Dutch

Congratulations on the new rifle.
I sent you a pm re: projectiles.
Frank

Dutch:
Less than a year ago I sold a Wilkes .475 no2 through an antique dealer in Anchorage. I'll look for your photos and see if was mine. If so, I have some good history on the rifle to send you.
Cheers,
Cal

Bertram brass does not seem to have a good reputation...

However I use Bertram brass in my 450 No2.

I have some cases, about 50 that have been fired at least 20 times eadch. I have never had any problems with them. They are my practice/pig hunting brass.

I did a test one time with 20 cases, I loaded them and fired them 7 rounds each, and they still look as new.

The Bertram 450 No2 and 475 No2 cases do seem to be made a lot thicker than most other cases.

Also you will most likely have to use a filler with what ever powder you use in your 475 No2. In my 450 No2 I have used poly and 3 different densities of foam plugs, that I cut out with a chamfered [ie sharpened] 50 BMG case.

I cannot tell any difference in performance between the fillers.
However just make sure that the filler is COMPRESSED between the powder and the bullet.

Also be sure you get the right diameter bullets. Some 475 No2's use .483 diameter bullets, some .488.

Usually the Jefferies use the 500gr .488 diameter bullets, most others the 480gr .483 diameter, but with doubles nothing is set in stone.

Agree totally, I have many reloads out of my Bertram 450 #2 NE brass, with only one little problem. I will say that their flash holes tend to be somewhat raggedy-ass, but a quick one-time treatment with my flash-hole uniformer fixed that little problem.

Thanks for the info, fellas. I had used Bertram for 25-20 SS and 450-400 3 1/4 and the flash holes were jagged and uneven and rim thickness varied considerably. Found the Horneber but may use the cyber-Monday coupon at Midway for some Bertram if it is more substantial than the ones that I have used in the past.

Using .500 backer rod for my plugs. Frank Martinez provided good info for projectiles as well. i won't take possession till December so looking forward to getting components now.

Dutch

ron vela is correct I deburr my flash holes too.

So let's hear some more about this .475 No. 2, details man, details. Some pics would be nice too.

I remember seeing this gun for sale (or one like it) I drooled all over it!! We would love pictures and a full account of your experience once you put some milage on your new Wilkes!! Good luck!!

Thank you for the interest, gentlemen. I will post pics as soon as I receive the rifle.

Dutch