45 Colt Ruger Only Load Question

627PCFan · Jan 13, 2018

Im starting load workup for my new Redhawk in 45LC using 300gn XTP Mags (I have a bunch for my muzzleloader load). I found load data from Handloader #213 which is a "best load" of AA#9 at 21.5gns through a Ruger Blackhawk. Obviously Im going to start low and work up but doesn't that seem dangerously high? I seated a bullet and there is some gap between the powder and the bullet when seated, I estimate 90-95% load density. Brass is virgin Starline and LR Primers.

Im also going to try IMR-4227 and AA#7 so if anyone has any experience with them I would appreciate any input as well.

Walkalong · Jan 13, 2018

AA #7 is too fast for "Ruger Only" loads.

My old Ruger Only load was using W-296 and it is in my old hard paper load book at home, and I only have access to my digital one here.

But that doesn't sound unusual for it to be around 90/95% load density.

Hodgdon shows a max of 22.2 of H-110 and a 300 Gr jacketed bullet, and a max of 22.3 of H-4227. Western Powders PDF shows a max of 20.0 of AA #9 with a 225 Gr Barnes in the 30,000 PSI "high pressure" range. Those are going to fill the case pretty well.

CraigC · Jan 13, 2018

Never used any Accurate powder but if it's in Handloader, it should be okay. I prefer 2400 or H110 for Ruger only .45Colt loads.

Jesse Heywood · Jan 15, 2018

John Taffin shows

Hornady 300 XTP

21.2 gr. H110* 1042

Hornady 300 XTP

18.5 gr. AA#9 1018

www.sixguns.com/tests/tt45lc.htm

ArchAngelCD · Jan 15, 2018

627PCFan said:
I seated a bullet and there is some gap between the powder and the bullet when seated, I estimate 90-95% load density.

Air space in the case with smokeless powder is not dangerous like with black powder. Some loads I use leave much more space than that. Not to worry about such a small gap even if the powder were position sensitive.

Rule3 · Jan 15, 2018

Perhaps look at Western Powders load data for STANDARD and HIGH pressure loads for your AA powder? Then move on to other data if needed.

http://www.accuratepowder.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/WesternLoadGuide1-2016_Web-1.pdf

Charlie98 · Jan 15, 2018

I used IMR4227 in some .41Mag loads last year, as much as I didn't want to like it, it performed very, very well in both my 4" Smith and my 20" Marlin 1894.

I was loading 19.5grn IMR4227 under a 215grn cast bullet... so it's not an economy powder, for sure, much like W296/H110.

I have no reason to believe it wouldn't work well in .45Colt, but have not tried it firsthand in mine.

Patocazador · Jan 15, 2018

I use 2400 in my .45 Ruger but it works a bit better with 250 gr. to 260 gr. than it does with the 300s.

45 Colt Ruger Only Load Question

627PCFan

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Walkalong

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CraigC

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Jesse Heywood

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ArchAngelCD

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Rule3

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Charlie98

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Patocazador

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