45 Auto Rim ?

[carl3989]

I know about the genesis of the 45 AR cartridge dating to WW1 and all. However once the moonclip arrived on the scene I would think the need for the 45AR disappeared. I can certainly reload my Mod.625PC quicker with a moonclip than a speed loader or indivdual 45ARs. Thanks to RimZ loading and unloading moonclips has become painless, so I guess what I would like to know is whether anyone uses the 45AR cartridge and if so, why?

 

[Maximumbob54]

It can be a pain if you load SWC’s to line them up just right with all six at a time. That is my best guess other than there are just people who don’t like moon clips at all.

 

[ExMachina1]

Actually, the moon clip (or the half moon clip) pre-dates the auto rim. A little history here: The .45 Auto Rim | Guns Magazine | Find Articles at BNET

The AR is desirable to me, because it allows me (as a reloader) to load the ARs hotter without the risk of the load getting into one of my autoloaders.

 

[Dave T]

A lot of people use them for +P and/or heavy bullet loads (255g SWC for example). Many folks think the bother of moon clips is just too much trouble. I don't agree but hear it all the time. As for the plastic ones, I bought a handful of them but have been underwhelmed. They have broken frequently and I'm down to 1/3 of the original purchase quantity and I've only loaded them twice.

Dave

 

[.357magger]

An additional factor is that some folks, myself included, started competitive shooting before the whole moonclip mania (my words, I know they have been around longer than I've been alive, but pre 1980ish you didn't see revolvers routinely cut for them) started, consequently they trained and like speedloaders.

As an example, particularly with .38/357 guns, I find speedloaders MUCH faster to use since moonclips allow wobble and speedloaders less so. Just makes it easier to index the hole at speed if the cartridge if firmly seated.

Just my .02 but I've not really embraced moonclips, for the reason(s) above. And I can load with speedloaders faster than lots can with semi's and a magazine so...I guess it all comes down to familiarity and training. I'm thankful that the .45 AR seems to be making a comeback now with several makers factory loading them. 10 years ago you'd be lucky to EVER see a factory loaded case/box of these.

 

[Harrison]

In many cases 45 AR gives me greater flexability than does 45acp in moonclips. Yea, in an IPSC match I will use the moonclips. Otherwise I often don't need to make lightening like reloads, so why fiddle around with moonclips and a de-clipper. I can safely load hotter loads and heavier bullets utilizing the AR case (and not have to worry they might get shot in my 1911). In some instances my 625 gets better ignition with AR cases than I do with moonclipped apc cases.

Actually to turn in around, except for competiton requiring ultra-fast reloads, why would you want to use moonclips, as opposed to speedloaders?

 

[Sebago Son]

.45 Auto Rim Utility....

I have seen 1955's that would shoot their best only with Auto Rimmed cases.

Theoretically, one gets more precise head spacing from the rimmed case vs. the case mouth or clip.

Drew

 

[H Richard]

When loading a SWC bullet it is a "pain" to wiggle all 6 into position for bullseye shooting. Moon clips are just fine with RN or TC bullets.

 

[Cheyenne WYO]

I like to carry my reloads in Quick Strips, so the Auto Rim works better. I also like Buffalo Bore 255 gr. hard cast for outdoor pursuits. Finally, moon clips/speedloaders are all or nothing. Shoot all six or dump live rounds on the ground when reloading. Quick Strips let you pick and choose when to top off.

 

[PatAz]

It is simply easier with the .45 auto rim.

 

[mtime7]

I don't like to fiddle with moon clips.. maybe its just me

 

[Vulcan Bob]

I have some loads I really dont want finding thier way into one of my 1911's, the use of AR brass solves that. If I feel the need for a speedy reload I use HKS speedloaders, not as fast as a moon clip but serviceable.

 

[ImprovedModel56Fan]

While I happen to prefer moonclips, there is considerable "overhead" time in loading and unloading them. If you carry your ammo in boxes, and just go to the range, or have no need for fast reloads, or would just as soon do them with a speedloader, the AR costs less time. Also, if you're pushing it, the case is stronger, although I'm not so sure that the case is the weakest link.

 

[Dale53]

I really don't need a reason to use or not use .45 Auto Rims. I just LOVE having choices. I shoot a lot of .45 ACP cases but also appreciate the .45 Auto Rim cases.

I often use a "standard" target load with .45 ACP cases that work well in both my 1911's OR my 625's. I also appreciate the ability to load heavy bullet loads in the AR cases that won't accidentally get into my 1911's.

I commonly use RIMZ clips at the range but I prefer steel full moon clips (Ranch Products) with bullets to match (either Lee's cast 230 gr TC conventional lube groove bullet or the Mihec molded 200 gr Hollow Point bullets). Both of these designs FALL into the cylinders and make easy work in a quick reload.

I like the clean, wad cutting shoulder of Mihec's cast H&G #68 bullets for general use.

Dale53

 

[scott625b]

Dave T:
My experience with the RIMZ is totally different than yours. I have clips that have been loaded and unloaded dozens of times both at the range and in competition. I find that the clips allow me to shoot over 250 rounds per clip. Did you let the manufacturer know you had a problem? Beckham is usually eager to replace a damaged clip. Just a thought.