BE-86 Start Loads 45 ACP

[3five7]

Alliant does not give start loads or barrel lengths in thier 2014 Manual. They list 6.7 grs BE-86 as max with a 200 gr LSWC. I used 6.1 grs as a start load with 200gr SNS Coated LRNFN. I got the following velocites with this load.

5 Inch Barrel velocity average of 10 shots=825.4 FPS
4 inch Barrel velocity average of 10 shots=797.6 FPS
3.3 inch Barrel velocity average of 10 shots=756.8 FPS

The OAL was 1.204" using R/P Nickel Cases with CCI SP Primers. The BE-86 metered very consistantly and burned very clean even in this reduced load. This were no surpises every shot worked the action in all 3 firearms just like it was supposed to. I will probaby use this as my light load with this powder. During these times of hard to get powder, It is always nice to have alternatives.

I usually use Power Pistol in my 45 loads. Just for kicks I decided to try my load of 6.4 grs of Power Pistol with the same bullet as above and the same 3 firearms. I got the following results.

5 inch Barrel velocity average of 10 shots=825.1 FPS
4 inch Barrel velocity average of 10 shots=813.6 FPS
3.3 inch Barrel velocity average of 10 shots=749.6 FPS

According to their 2014 Load Manual BE-86's burn rate is between Unique on the fast side and Power Pistol on the slow side. I would have liked to make a comparison with Unique, but I dont have any. Just for information the SD on all of the above loads were between 9.9 and 15.3.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Alliant lists the max charge weights and they tell you to reduce by 10% to establish the starting load.

Thank you for the data. I know how much work goes into testing it all...

 

[Nevada Ed]

Mighty fine testing and data.......thank you.


That 86 is a "Keeper" !!

You guys keep these test rolling in and I am going to have to buy me some of that good stuff.

How does it fill up the case? 50% more, less ?

 

[3five7]

It fills the case less than half full. But it does not appear to be position sensitive, the SD for all 6 loads was beteen 9.9 and 15.3.

 

[Nevada Ed]

With almost 50% volume it is a little friendlier than CFE
as far as double charging............ that is a plus.

If it can get to a hot 38 special or a tad over a standard 9mm
in fps......... it will chalk up another point.
I just load 38 / 9mm and already am using nine (9) powders!!

People need to learn about these "New powders".

Sorry I don't do 45 any more.

later.

 

[JBnTx]

People need to learn about these "New powders".

I think you're right!

CFE Pistol is rapidly becoming my favorite pistol powder, and I can't wait to try BE-86 and Power Pro 300-MP.

It's hard to let go of Unique and 2400.

 

[BLUEDOT37]

BE-86

Alliant does not give start loads or barrel lengths in thier 2014 Manual.

That's an interesting comparison. Thanks for the info.

The downloadable manual does not list the barrel lengths used but if you look at the same data in their on-line guide, it does state the barrel length, 5" for your load.
.

 

[Nevada Ed]

Well I guess they thought that a 5" would be between a 4 and 6" barrel and make us all happy with their data ??