[hube1236]

I have been shooting Leadhead gas checked bullits for a while- my first handloads. I use 4.3 gr of Universal Clays for 200g SWC for average results of about 840 fps (at 80 degrees). I use 3.9-4.0gr of Clays for 776fps for 225 RNL (at 40 deg). All are 45, all are out of a five inch barrell.

I am tired of the waxy, smokey discharge and lead smoke. I have switched to 200 gr Jacketed SWC. Where do I start? Does copper slow the bullet down, or does it act as a lube?

I need to define and refine a load soon for the SC State. 2 weeks. I do not have the luxury of loading up 87 different combinations due to work constraints.

Does anyone have a starting point?

[rnovi]

www.hodgdon.com (specifically http://www.hodgdon.com/data/pistol/45acp.php ) has your loading data.

But, to make life easier:

Max Load:
CLAYS 4.9 gr.
981 fps.
17,400 CUP

Start at 10% low, around 4.5gr and work up to 4.9.

[hube1236]

I am not looking for max load data, thanks. I seek power factor- which is mucho less than 4.9 grains. From what I understand about clays- I would not go much past 4.5 gr.

[Steve C]

If you load copper clad bullets like Raniers or Berry's you should use the same data as you would for lead. True jacketed bullets provide greater bore resistance and produce lower velocities with eqivalent charges than lead.

[Tom C.]

I like the Hornady 200 JSWC. I load 5.2 gr. 231. Don't have a chrono. Should be around 800 fps.