Would like to load 200 gr. JHP for a .45 auto using Unique Powder.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Jimmy
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Jimmy
.45 ACP 200 Grain Jacketed
- Thread starter jimmyj
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Steve C
Member
Looking through my compiled data "One Book/One Caliber" there's quite a bit of range in the data for Unique with 200 gr JHP's from a max loads of 6.2grs using Hornady to 7.4grs using Sierra. Alliants on line catalog says you can use 7.3grs with the Speer 200gr GD.
If I was looking for a defense level load I'd start around 6.6 and go up to 7.2 in .2gr increments and run them over a chrono and on paper. Would be looking for accuracy and a velocity of around 900 to 1,000 fps from a 5" 1911. Load 10 rounds each level and run 5 at paper and 5 over the chrono.
If I was looking for a defense level load I'd start around 6.6 and go up to 7.2 in .2gr increments and run them over a chrono and on paper. Would be looking for accuracy and a velocity of around 900 to 1,000 fps from a 5" 1911. Load 10 rounds each level and run 5 at paper and 5 over the chrono.
Amici
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Yes. Find a better propellant.
Seriously. It is versatile and safe, but an old and dirty formulation.
I'd look at Red Dot, 231 or WST as common, inexpensive alternatives. TiteGroup, AA #5 and N 340 would also warrant your attention.
oldRoger
US Veteran
For some reason I have been getting quite a bit of smoke from Red Dot (200gr, H&G 68, 5.1grs RD) so I have been using AA 5 @ 8.4grs. Nice clean load.
Boat loads of Red Dot are used. I agree about Unique I would look elsewhere.
Boat loads of Red Dot are used. I agree about Unique I would look elsewhere.
akjaeger
Member
7.5 gr Unique gives me 1050 fps and good accuracy from my 625-6 Mountain Gun. I use it with Hornady XTP's and some plated 200 gr SWC's.
Steve C
Member
I have to dissagree. Unique is probably the best powder for cartridges like the .45 acp and .38 spl. if you want to maximize velocity. With increased pressures it cleans up well with jacketed bullets. Everything is dirty with lead depending upon bullet lube.
fredj338
Member
I agree, I shoot a lot of Unique in high end loads & it is no dirtier than other powders. I think where guys get messed up is trying to load light target loads w/ it & Unique likes to run midragne to max for best results. Some of the most accurate ammo I have laoded has been w/ Unique in a wide range of carts. Try 6.5gr for the low end & work upto 7.5gr for max.
bmcgilvray
Member
Another happy Unique shooter here. For full power loads in non magnum handgun cartridges it's mighty good.
No doubt Unique was a good powder "back in the day", but I believe there are more modern powders that offer the same performance without the filthiness of Unique.
I'm currently shooting 4.8 gr of Titegroup behind a 200 gr lead SWC with great results.
I would never go back to Unique.
I'm currently shooting 4.8 gr of Titegroup behind a 200 gr lead SWC with great results.
I would never go back to Unique.
grendelbane
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I still like Unique. There seems to be some prejudice against Unique because of its age. I find it to be very versatile.
I don't think its dirty, I think it has a lot of graphite in it.
Guns are supposed to be cleaned after shooting, after all.
Power Pistol will out-perform it if velocity is your only goal. There are more economical choices as well. I still like Unique. I tried to get away from it for a couple of years, but I keep going back. Reminds me, I need some more right now, after that marathon loading session of .45 Colt.
I don't think its dirty, I think it has a lot of graphite in it.
Guns are supposed to be cleaned after shooting, after all.
Power Pistol will out-perform it if velocity is your only goal. There are more economical choices as well. I still like Unique. I tried to get away from it for a couple of years, but I keep going back. Reminds me, I need some more right now, after that marathon loading session of .45 Colt.
