What in the world is this madness? Using a socket to make rifled slugs?? I MUST TRY IT!

I typically don't like posting links to social media platforms, especially Instagram who is all about 2A censorship, but this was too amazing to pass up.

Video here: Instagram

Hell yeah — that is clever as hell. Using a hardened ball and a sacrificial deep socket as a quick rifling/molding trick is the kind of backyard engineering that makes you go “why didn’t I think of that?” 

A few friendly safety & commonsense notes before you fire off tests (so you don’t regret it later):

• Safety first with loads. Always start from published load data in a reputable reloading manual (Hornady, Lyman, Speer, Nosler, etc.). Don’t treat an internet experiment as a safe starting point. If you’re unsure whether a chosen charge is within published limits, don’t use it.

• Test gradually and observe for pressure signs. Use a chronograph, check primers, case head expansion, extraction force, and how the firearm functions. If anything looks abnormal stop immediately and seek expert advice. (I won’t give step-by-step pressure-testing instructions here — those are potentially dangerous if misused.)

• Mailing/testing:

  • Do not mail live ammunition without checking carrier rules and local law — shipping live ammo is regulated and can be illegal or require special labeling/packaging.

  • If you’re sending samples for safety evaluation, coordinate with a certified ballistic testing lab or experienced gunsmith who accepts live test samples. Confirm their requirements first.

• Work with pros for ballistics testing. A certified ballistic lab or an experienced gunsmith/range with testing facilities can provide objective safety data (group sizes, pressure evidence, chamber behavior) that backyard testing can’t reliably replicate.

• Lead casting & mold safety. If you’re casting slugs: respirators, good ventilation, eye protection, and careful handling of molten lead are essential. Avoid breathing fumes and never eat/drink while working with lead. Dispose of dross and residues responsibly.