460 Rowland Conversion

[ThePredator]

I just ordered a Clark Custom conversion for my SS S&W 1911. Does anyone have any experence with this and how should it withstand the pounding?

 

[ThePredator]

I just ordered a Clark Custom conversion for my SS S&W 1911. Does anyone have any experence with this and how should it withstand the pounding?

 

[Cayoot]

I'm really glad to see this post. I'm considering the same thing. I've even considered having my 625 (.45 acp) modified to accept the Rowland.

When you get your's, would you please post a full report here?

 

[ThePredator]

I hope to have it in next week and will start testing. I picked up 200 grain XTP bullets and Longshot powder on Friday and will load as soon as the kit and brass arrives. I will post results. My goal is to get an accuarate deer hunting load comparable to my 44 mag load which is H110 and 200 grain XTP.

Kevin

 

[Cayoot]

While we are waiting on the arrival of your equipment, would you be so kind as to post an analysis of the results and reactions (of the deer) on that 200 grn XTP from your .44 Mag?

What was the velocity, range, penetration, and performance, as well as the deer reaction?

Thanks

 

[ThePredator]

I have been loading 28 grains H110 with a 200 grain XTP for some time. I hunt with a 6" 629 and my son hunts with an 18" Ruger deerfield carbine. I get about 1600 fps from the Smith and about 1850 from the ruger. I have shot 2 deer with the 629. Both shot were broadside double lung shots at 35 and 60 yards. Both jumped into the air and ran 40-50 yards into cover before exipiring. Complete penetration and good expansion. No bullet was recovered.
My son has killed 8 deer with the 44 carbine. Range was from 25 yard to 105 yards. 6 of the 8 were shoulder shots and the deer went straight down. They were hit directly in the shoulder. The 105 shot was a spine shot and the deer dropped in his tracks. One was gut shot and only went 100-150 yards into a planted pine thicket and we recovered it after waiting several hours and had a good blood trail. These deer were SC deer ranging from 90-175 pounds. I have been impressed by the load. Let me know if you have other questions.

Kevin

 

[Cayoot]

Thanks Predator, I have always hesitated to use the XTPs because of their poor rep. for expansion.

I have a Dan Wesson .44 Mag with 8 inch tube, and I was going to use the RCBS 250 grn Keith SWC this year. However I just purchased a Hornaday LNL AP (my second Hornaday LNL AP-now I have 2) and they come with 1,000 free Hornaday bullets (except I have to pay shipping). Maybe I'll take a thousand of those 200 grainers. You seem to have great luck with them.

 

[ThePredator]

Cayoot,

I don't think you would have any problem with expansion with this bullet with the velocity from your 8" DW. Penetration may be more of a concern since your deer are significantly larger than what we see down in the south. I bow hunt in Wisconsin and 250-300# deer are common. You may want to look at some 250-300 grain WFN cast bullets from Cast Performance. You can ship the 200 grain XTp's to me!!!

 

[ThePredator]

I finally got to the range with the conversion kit after reloading 50 rounds with 200 grain XTP and 13 grains Longshot. All 50 rounds fed and ejected without issue. I chronographed all rounds and the average was 1374 fps with ES of 74 fps. I shot at 10 yards to get on paper then at 25 yard tp check groups. The first couple had fliers that opened a 2.5 inch group to over 5 inches. Other groups were under 3 inches. Recoil was similair to 45 ACP loads. I will continue to work with loads to find and accurate hunting load.


kevin

 

[Cayoot]

WOW Kevin, I've been waiting to hear this!

So tell me,...in your opinion, does the 460 Rowland live up to the hype?

Knowing what you know now...would you do it again?

 

[ThePredator]

I was joking with my Dad after I left the range that I could sell all my other handguns as I have attained the Holy Grail!
I have only shot 50 rounds of one load but was very impressed. The velocity and lack of reciol really is impressive. I am going to work up some additional loads and work on the accuracy before making the final decision. If I can get a load that will shoot close to my revolvers, I will be carrying the 460 Rowland during deer season. It was definitely worth it and yes I would buy it again. If you are considering this I would recommend just sending Clark your slide and having them fit the kit to your slide. They indicated that 8 of 10 fit without modification, but mine was one that did not. You may also consider ordering a complete Kimber from Clark Custom. Their prices appear pretty good. I post results and photos from my next range trip.

Kevin

 

[Cayoot]

Did the conversion kit reliably shoot standard .45 acp also?

 

[ThePredator]

I tried ACP reloads 200 grain at 900 fps and factory 230 grain at 800 FPS and it would fire, but not cycle the action. I think it would function if you went back to a standard 16-18# recoil spring.

 

[ThePredator]

Here is my S&W 1911 with the Clark Custom 460 Rowland COnversion installed.