[Landric]

As part of my quest to do the unusual (so long as its safe), I've thought of the idea of using .45 GAP brass to handload slightly shorter rounds for a .45ACP Smith model 22.

The GAP uses a small pistol primer, and brass seems to be reasonably priced (sometimes cheaper than .45ACP). Given the hit and miss availability of primers these days, it would be nice to be able to load for the Model 22 regardless of which primers I happen to have at the moment.

Is there any reason not to use .45GAP handloads in a .45ACP chambered revolver that uses moon clips? I know its not traditional, but if its safe I'd like to give it a try and see the results.

TIA

[NuJudge]

I believe the pressures for the .45 GAP are a good bit higher than the .45 acp.

[Landric]

According to my Speer #14 manual the .45GAP goes 23000 PSI, the same as .45ACP+P and 2000 PSI higher than the standard pressure ACP. Given that I'd be using it in an N-frame, I'm not concerned about shooting what amounts to all +P cartridges.

[Old Fuff]

I'm not sure why you want to, but there isn't any reason you can't so, as long as you use clips, as they will headspace the cartridge. If I was handloading I might cut the loads a bit. While it's not necessary it would reduce the chance of developing cylinder end-shake.

[Landric]

Yeah, I'd be loading the bottom end of the spectrum if I decide to do it.

As to why, its really more of a why not. Its a chance to try something new, and if it won't hurt anything to try it, I expect I will.

[Old Fuff]

Well the negative is having to scrub out the chambers when you're done... :evil: :banghead:

[Landric]

There is that, but considering that I shoot .38 Specials about 95% of the time in my .357 revolvers and I'm about to start shooting .44 Russian in my .44 Special revolvers, its something I am going to have a lot of practice with. :)

[ar10]

In addition to the higher pressure the GAP also has a thicker web. That's why you don't cut down a .45APC for a GAP round.

[rcmodel]

I'm not sure, but the GAP rim design might be enough different they won't even fit in ACP moon-clips.

Might check that first.

rc

[ar10]

Moon clip:confused:
What's a revolver :confused::confused::confused::D