2 Questions on 45 Bullets

[chrisf8657]

Hey guys,

I need to load a few ---- rounds. I'll be loading +P at 930-950fps.
.45 Speer Gold Dots are almost non-existant, so I've kinda settled on two bullets:

1. Hornady 230g XTP
I have heard that XTP bullets are notorious for not expanding, then read the opposite. So I'm not sure what the deal is. Are these bullets any good at STANDARD and +P 45 velocities from a Gov Model?

2. Berrys Hybrid HP
Haven't heard anything on these, though they look like an expanded HST. Any reviews on penetration & expansion, etc.?

So if you could help a fella out (including if you have any +P load data), I'd appreciate it.

 

[Walkalong]

Any big name JHP that feeds 100% in your gun should work fine. Spend your time worrying about other things, like training and mindset.

Training, mindset, calmness under stress, willingness to use force (No hesitation), ability to place a shot under stress, etc, etc, are all more important than the exact bullet choice.

My .45 likes the Golden Sabers and Gold Dots. I haven't tried the XTPs, but if they proved to run 100% would not hesitate to use them.

 

[CZ9shooter]

In many people's eyes, GoldDots may be superior, but XTP's are perfectly acceptable in my book. In my experience with them (9mm, 380 and 38spl) they expand reliably but not quite as wide as some ultra premium bullets. Accuracy is second to none however.

 

[splattergun]

I am getting superb accuracy with XTPs in my 9mm. I haven't tried them for my .45 yet, but not because I have any problem with them. I will load .45 XTPs before summer.

I have also read that they don't expand to the diameter that GoldDot does, but those reports commonly express "reliable" expansion for the XTPs. IMO, their accuracy in my gun is paramount to expansion diameter.

 

[doctorjohn]

I am getting superb accuracy with XTPs in my 9mm. I haven't tried them for my .45 yet, but not because I have any problem with them. I will load .45 XTPs before summer.

I have also read that they don't expand to the diameter that GoldDot does, but those reports commonly express "reliable" expansion for the XTPs. IMO, their accuracy in my gun is paramount to expansion diameter.

What load are you using?

 

[moxie]

This test shows the XTP to work pretty well:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ct33tKvpKo

I haven't seen any tests on the Berrys.

If your intended use is self defense, it's best to stick with name brand components like the Golden Saber or Gold Dot.