Let's get technical (Re: post 30)
Overall length is measured from base of the case to tip of the bullet. But that is not REALLY what you want to measure. Unfortunately, that is the only thing we CAN measure.
The real measurement you want is the volume inside the case.
The length from web to bullet base is a proxy measurement for that volume. But we can't measure that directly.
The overall length of the cartridge is a proxy for THAT measurement.
The overall length of the cartridge can vary considerably based on the shape of the nose. If you have a perfectly round nose profile vs a more elongated curve vs a spitzer point you can easily see that overall length is an imperfect proxy.
Fortunately, 45 ACP bullets don't vary that much in shape. But hollowpoints will make a difference.
So, as promised, I will get technical now.
If you have a bullet of a given weight and load data (including OAL) for a differently shaped bullet of the same weight, it might be worthwhile to find the different in actual bullet length and adjust the recipe's OAL to account for that difference.
Reloading isn't rocket science, but it does involve smoke and flame and things that go terribly fast. Pay attention to detail and you will be fine.
Your caution about shooting the few cartridges you feel are heavily loaded is commendable.
On the good side, the 45 ACP is a fairly low-pressure cartridge developed over 100 years ago and modern guns are built of a bit stronger metal than back then. Your loads are probably good to go as long as the internal volume is not too small. But only cartridges? Pull them. It's good practice and a good practice. You don't have to punch out the old primers. Just re-bell the case mouths, charge the cases and seat/crimp the bullets.
Lost Sheep