maineac,

I have not shot a lot of PowerBelts so I am not an expert, but as to your question the copper clad power belts may have a a slight advantage over the pure lead in a couple of areas. In actuallity the copper is so thin it probably adds nothing to expansion or the control of expansion - it may however, benifit the flight of the bullet providing a smoother surface cutting through the air than straight lead. It may also reduce some lead fouling in the barrel, depending on how hard you are pushing the PB out. The heavier the charge the more you will drive the bullet up against the walls of the barrel and then out the barrel.

PowerBelts are expensive but they may be the easiest way to get started, but with a little experiance I am sure you will change your projectile - unless there are state requirements that lock you in somewhat.

Just my 2 cents