45 ACP 230 g FMJ RN HSM loads..does this make sencese

[joed70]

I have no loading data for 230 g HSM FMJ RN bullets. I am thinking if I keep the volume in the case the same as some published data by adjusting the COL that it should be a safe load. Here is my thinking. Hornady shows a COL of 1.23 for the 230 gr FMJ RN ENC bullet. The Hornady bullet measures .643 in length the HSM bullet measures .622 in length both 230 gr FMJ RN. In order to have the same volume in the case for the HSM as the Hornady I need to reduce the COL for the HSM to 1.209. (Reduced by the difference in length of the two bullets (.021) in order to keep the same volume). Then I should be able to use the loading data from the Hornady chart. I realize there will be some small difference in FPS due to small difference in the 2 bullets design. Does this make sense and is it safe? Are there any loading charts for the HSM bullets..I have searched the forum and found none. Thanks Joe

 

[rcmodel]

If the hunting Shack 230 RN bullets are similar to GI 230 FMJ-RN profile, they should be seated to 1.266" - 1.271" to match factory GI hardball ammo.

HSM provides no reloading data.
They do say thier plated bullets should use Lead bullet data.
Lyman #49 manual lists 19 different powders with 230 grain LRN cast bullets.

They also list a 230 Speer TMJ-RN (plated) at 1.275" OAL.
The 230 grain LRN at 1.272".

IMO: 1.230" is too short for most 230 RN bullet designs that are close to the GI bullet shape.

rc

 

[joed70]

Thanks rc!!....But I still wonder if my thinking/rationale (volume aspect) is ok. Seems to me that if the bullets are the "same" and if the volume occupied by the powder is the same that the published data for the Hornaday would be safe to use. Do u see any error/caution in this thinking?

 

[rcmodel]

No problem.

.45 ACP is a low pressure caliber to start with, and unless you are pushing the glue off the envelop flap with max loads, seating depth is not that critical.

More importent is whether it will feed in your gun or not at that OAL.
In my experiance, longer always feeds better then shorter, in 1911's at least.

I seat 230 grain FMJ-RN to 1.266" - 1.271" GI hardball spec, as I know my 1911's & S&W .45 ACP revolver all will work 110% reliably and give best accuracy with that length.

It is my understanding that some later gun designs such as the XD work better shorter?? But I have no experiance with them in .45 ACP.

rc

 

[joed70]

i am using the XD, I will play around a bit....again TY

 

[Jech]

Springfield XD pistols have chambers on the tighter and shorter side of SAAMI tolerances. With my SA XD45ACP Tac, I've had better luck with shorter OALs between 1.22"-1.25". If you're concerned with pressure, just reduce your powder charge slightly to compensate for the shorter OAL.

.45 ACP is a low pressure caliber to start with, and unless you are pushing the glue off the envelop flap with max loads, seating depth is not that critical.

rcmodel hit the nail right on the head with this one.