Velocity at which JHP reliably expands

[iamkris]

I reload Hornady XTP 230 gr JHPs in my 45. They feed reliably and I've read great things about them in the expansion and retained weight departments. Typically I've shot them in my 5" bbl 1911.

I recently bought a 45 with a 3.75" bbl and am doubting the reliability of expansion with this bullet weight, with my load (5.7 gr 231) in this bbl. I'm wondering if I should work up a new load around the 200 gr or 185 gr version of the XTP

Anyone seen or know of a reference that gives approximations of optimal muzzle velocity for expansion of the XTP line in the different weights? That and some time at the loading bench and with a chrony ought to do it. I really don't have access to any place I can do my own "expansion experiments".

Thanks in advance.

 

[Mike Irwin]

These days expansion depends a LOT more on bullet design and construction than it does on velocity.

I can't answer your question specifically, though.

 

[Zak Smith]

Call Hornady.

I email SPEER a while ago about their Gold Dots in .44, and he said to take the maximum velocity and multiply by 2/3rds to get the "design limit" for expansion.

-z

 

[444]

XTPs come with a piece of paper in the box of bullets that answers your exact question.

"XTP bullets were designed for best performance at a range of impact velocities given below. This range has been found to be optimum for maximum penetration and expansion. For additional information, contact Hronady Manufacturing, P.O. Box 1848, Grand Island, NE 68802 (308) 382-1390

#45100 .45 Cal-185 HP/XTP 750-1450 fps
#45140 .45 CAl-200-HP/XTP 700-1250 fps
#45160 .45 CAl-230 HP/XTP 800-1250 fps
#45200 .45 Cal-250 HP/XTP 800-1600 fps
#45230 .45 Cal-300 HP/XTP 800-1700+ fps

 

[iamkris]

Thanks folks

444 (is that as in Marlin 444?)

Have to admit I've never seen that little slip of paper. Thanks for transcribing it. Will look for it next time and not throw out the box so quick. Usually see the slittle reloading record slips of paper and ignore them.

 

[444]

Yes, as in Marlin 444.
Not to bore you with the details, but I bought a used Marlin 444 on an impulse. I didn't know anything about the caliber so I did an internet search. The results led me to the facinating world of internet gun forums, where I now spend far too much time.

I haven't fired the rifle for a year or two, but have fired XTPs out of it on more than one occasion. As you can imagine, it is in the upper range of recommended velocity. One of my faviorite loads is a 300 grain bullet at 2200 fps.