[SEVENPOINT]

Is it possible to use .45 ACP dies to reload the .45 GAP cartridge? It doesn't seem likely, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Thanks.

[1911user]

Is it possible to use .45 ACP dies to reload the .45 GAP cartridge? It doesn't seem likely, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Thanks.
It'd be close enough for me to try using them. I'd be surprised if new die sets weren't slighty changed to work (and be labeled) for both.

[Bullet]

Quote:
Originally Posted by SEVENPOINT
"Is it possible to use .45 ACP dies to reload the .45 GAP cartridge? It doesn't seem likely, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Thanks."

Yes, I do. My .45ACP dies are Hornady.

[SEVENPOINT]

Interesting. Then why could I not trim the ACP cases down to the appropriate length? Is the case thicker to accomidate higher pressures?

[Bullet]

The cases are different and so are the primers.

[Vitamin G]

seems like it would be able to do so to me, much like 40 and 10mm.


Then again, i have about 2.5hrs of reloading experience, and then the handle on my lee anniversary kit snapped off.

1hr drive back to Cabelas in the morning to replace it :cuss:

[Bullet]

I read somewhere that you should not try to use cut down 45ACP brass for 45GAP. The 45ACP cases are not as strong and the 45GAP uses more pressure. Just buy 45GAP cases and be safe.

[Reed1911]

DO NOT use .45 ACP cases for the .45 GAP. IF you really feel the need to see for your self, cut one of each in half and compare them. By all measured standards the .45 GAP cases are thicker and harder; to handle the higher pressures. I think they made the rim on the 45 GAP a little smaller so you would not be able to do it, but I trimmed one for the heck of it and it locked up fine. The .45 GAP cases are not expensive. If need be I'll set you guys up for a group buy and do away with any profit just to supply you with them.

[mattdus]

I dont see why you cant use the dies, I have a set of .45 acp carbide dies that state on the box GAP as well as ACP.

[Reed1911]

Yes, the .45ACP dies can be used to load and re-load the .45 GAP.

[dickwholliday]

Don't you have trouble with the taper crimp when using ACP dies to load GAP.....D I C K

[Reed1911]

No need to crimp them. Why would you? The case has enough grip on the bullet to prevent set back. No reason to bell the mouths if you chamfer them before you load them the first time, no need to do it at each loading unless you trim and square off the mouth.

[Bullet]

“Don't you have trouble with the taper crimp when using ACP dies to load GAP.....D I C K”

I slightly bell my cases and then use a Lee factory crimp die. Works great.