.45 Colt load data needed for 270 gr LSWC

[308 Scout]

I'm looking for some load data for my .45 Colt using a 270 gr LSWC. More specifically the bullet is the RCBS #45-270-SAA from Western Bullet Company.

I don't need any earth shakin' loads. Just some that will give me 850 fps to 1,000 fps from my 4 5/8" Blackhawk.

I actually have a mould that casts that very bullet in one of three hollowpoint configurations as well as the solid SWC. I've done quite a bit of loading and chronographing and here are some of my results with various powders. You may see different weights of bullets depending on the HP configuration and alloy used, but they're all out of the same mould and the different weights affect velocity very little.

6.5 grs. 700X

This is a very good load that for the most part duplicates the original load when 250-260 gr. bullets are used. Also works very well as a utility load for just about any bullet.

Ruger New Vaquero 4 3/4" - 278 gr.- 810 fps; 286 gr.- 795 fps
Uberti Cattleman 4 3/4" - 283 gr.- 830 fps
Uberti Bisley 5 1/2"-
USFA SA 5 1/2"- 288 gr. 792 fps

Unique

Pretty much the standard powder for the 45 Colt. Alliant currently shows 9.5 grs. as within SAAMI specs, but this is for a 250 gr. cast SWC and I only used that charge with the 45-270 bullets in the New Vaquero choosing to stay at 9.0 in the other revolvers.

Ruger New Vaquero 4 3/4"
9.0 grs.- 278 gr.- 911 fps
9.5 grs.- 265 gr.- 1034 fps; 276 gr.- 1000 fps

Uberti Cattleman 4 3/4"
9.0 grs.- 270 gr.- 941 fps

Uberti Bisley 5 1/2"
8.5 grs.- 288 gr.- 878 fps
9.0 grs.- 280 gr.- 913 fps

AA#7

A sort of peculiar powder, but has worked quite well for me in the 45 Colt.

Ruger New Vaquero 4 3/4"
13.0 grs.- 283 gr.- 910 fps
14.0 grs.- 283 gr.- 1000 fps (Ruger only)


AL2400

Good for loads when you're wanting 900+ fps. Alliant's current manual shows 15.4 grs. as a max w/ 250 gr. lead SWC. I took my loads from some of Ken Water's old data. This data will be fine in any Ruger, but use at your own risk in any Colt or Colt reproduction.

Uberti Bisley 5 1/2"
16.5 grs.- 278 gr.- 1001 fps

Hope this isn't confusing and I hope it helps.

 

[noylj]

You can always use load data for the next heavier bullet.
Loads that have been used in "Handloader" are:
280gn RCBS 45-270-SAA (nominal 270gn bullet)--
8.0gn Power Pistol for 902 fps
6.0gn TiteGroup for 810 fps
6.5gn TiteGroup for 840 fps
7.0gn TiteGroup for 911 fps
9.5gn LongShot for 965 fps
10.5gn AA5 for 960 fps

 

[LOBO]

I sure do appreciate everyone's help with the load information.

When I checked the weight of the bullets they averaged at 292 grains so I guess I'll be using 300 gr load data.

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

I have a SSK mold that is supposed to be 310 grains, but the run 320 to 330 depending on the alloy. Their "As cast" diameter changes with the alloy also!

Ivan