M25 Target Loads

[Model19man]

.451" bullets will rattle down the barrel in most M25's. 45 Colt barrel specs are .454" groove diameter normally.

 

[BLUEDOT37]

While we are talking about lighter bullets, I have a harebrained question. I have about 500, 45 185 gr Hornady XTP (#45100) I purchased for use in my 1911, but since they are JHP, they don't cycle reliably. Would I be crazy to try them in my Smith? Should I have any concerns with the .451" diameter as opposed to the .452" that I am currently loading? Crimping may be an issue as well?

If you don't want to use the 185gr XTPs for anything else they should be fine to try in your 25-15. I've used them, & HAPs, in my S&W 45 Colt & 45WSM loads before.

Plan on having to raise the rear sight multiple clicks though (~8-10?) since the lighter bullet is doing to hit lower than the 260gr bullet you have zeroed in.

Hair Trigger makes a good point on sizing. Most 45 Colt sizer dies have a larger ID than the same brand's 45ACP sizer die. My Lee 45 Colt sizer has a .467" ID while my Lee 45ACP sizer has a .465" ID.

Don't know what brand you have or how it sizes but it sounds like you reload for 45ACP too?

If so you can normal size your brass with the 45 Colt sizer & then come back & run just the first 1/4" of that brass into your 45ACP sizer to bring the case mouth seating area down a few thousandths more for a tighter case-bullet grip when seating the bullet.

Don't flare/bellmouth the cases anymore than is needed to start seating the 185gr XTP then apply a taper crimp as you would to a 45ACP load.

I load my 45WSM pretty hot, & in a lighter Sc framed 325TR, using a 45ACP sizer & taper crimp. Only on the hottest loads will I encounter some jump-crimp. With your heavier revolver & lighter loads I wouldn't expect this problem if loaded as suggested.

Your 25-15 throats are probably .452" as is your barrel's groove.

The .451" XTPs will shoot just fine with a compliant load.

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[Too Much Linguini]

All good info gents! You guys are awesome. I'll give the XTPs a whirl. I like the idea of not worrying about excessive leading as well with the JHP. Any suggestions on starting load? I currently have Bullseye, H-110, IMR4227 & Tite-Group. With all the talk about Unique, I guess I better get some of that too! BTW, currently using CCI Large Pistol primers.