.45 ACP: load data for 185gr lead versus jacketed

[lmcgust]

I reloaded lots of .38 and 9mm but I'm new to .45 ACP.

I plan to load some 185 gr LHP (lead semi-wadcutters) from Precision Delta. I'm having somewhat of a tough time finding load data. I have two questions for you fellow reloaders:

1) Can I safely use data published for 185 gr JHP bullets, like the Hornady XTP, even if it is a copper jacket instead of lead?

2) Can I expect similar velocities figures?

Best Regards,
Guy -

 

[mr mom]

ive cast and have been loading 185 swc since the 70's they called them flying thumb tacks.. nice clean hole.
im useing 5.6 grs of unique.... my old lyman book has 5.0 gr. starting @795 f.p.s.

they also have listings for bulleye,red dot, p.b.sr 4756 and sr7625 for that bullet.

one thing you will have to ply with is seating the bullet out just far enough to go up the ramp. i made up 5 dummy rounds and ran they with the slide . when they feed with no problem start out with the starting load and work your way till they feed and work the slide withou trouble.

we used them at 50 ft indoors comp.

mr mom

 

[mtgianni]

If they fit the bbl the velocities should be slightly faster due to less drag.

 

[PPCSHOOTER]

4.3GR WST
4.0GR VV310

 

[Paul5388]

The Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook #3 has a 185 gr bullet listed, but it isn't a SWC. The bullet shape won't make much difference in a cast bullet of that weight. Powders listed are pretty extensive, including AL-5.

 

[boatbum101]

I too second the 4.3 WST / 4.0 VVN310 loads with a 185 lead SWC ( 45acp ) if you use a 185 JHP up the load to 4.8 WST & 4.3 - 4.7 VVN310 . Bullseye use 3.9 - 4.2 for lead & 4.5 for JHP . These are accurate loads for Bullseye / PPC target work . To meet a power factor for action games you'll need a stiffer load most likely . I use the Zero 185 Lead SWCHP with either of above loads . Unless PD has upped their QC , their bullets have been undersized in the past & won't group @ 50yds . I'm still shooting 30K of 'em up @ 25yds for timed / rapid fire .

 

[lmcgust]

Thanks boatbum and ppcshooter. It will be used for PPC distinguished matches. What OAL do you use? About 1.135?

 

[johngalt]

The local bullseye shooters here have ransom rested a variety of loads. They tell me 3.9 gr Bullseye grouped the best with a 185 gr LSWC, so that is what I use. It is a light load, but it reliably cycles a 1911 with the standard 16# spring.

 

[fredj338]

If they fit the bbl the velocities should be slightly faster due to less drag.

Sorry, I have never bought into this line of thought. All things being equal, pressure = velocity. A bullet that is slicker, like moly coated, need more powder to achieve the same vel as non coated. So the reason you get more vel w/ lead bullets & less pwoder is not less friction but more. The lead bullet seals the bore better giving higher pressures & vel. It's why you can NOT safely use jacketed data for lead bullets in most calibers. THis is based on my own chronograph exp & looking at coef of friction tables. DOn't confuse being malleable w/ smooth.
When you can not find data for a given bulelt weight, then go to the next heaviest bullet. Use 200gr LSWC data as a starting point for the 185grLTC, or use starting jacketed data for a sim shape/wt bullet.

 

[ChuckS1]

Use the 200 grain lead SWC data. You won't notice any difference.

 

[boatbum101]

With a 185 lead SWC OAL will be determined by your chamber . Pull the barrel out your gun & hold it up vertically . Drop a loaded round in the chamber . Should hear a " plunk " . If case head is flush or slightly below end of barrel hood you good to go . If it's above ( too long ) or won't seat ( not enough crimp ) , adjust seating depth &/or crimp as needed . Your basically making your ammo as a " headspace " gauge to fit your chamber . DO NOT do this with jacketed loads near or at max in 45acp .