.45 ACP and Power Pistol

[tango2echo]

Depending on what manual you reference the Max charge is somewhere between 6.9gr and 8.0grs with the 230gr Speer TMJ. I started with 6.5grs in the first batch and worked up to 6.8gr, 7.1gr, 7.4gr, and 7.6grs. (slight pressure signs at 7.6grs). This was in a Ruger KP90DCO. Switched to a 1911A1 clone and went through the work-up again. Same results with pressure at 7.6grs, but 15fps faster in this gun at 900 even.

Now for the questions; has anyone loaded Power Pistol with the 230gr TMJ hotter than 7.6grs? Did you experience pressure signs? What were the results?

I am not looking for commentary on what powder is best for the .45ACP. I have loaded and fired around 45,000 rounds of .45ACP over the years. My questions concern this particular powder and bullet weight/type, since this powder is new to me.

Thank you,

t2e

 

[LightningMan]

Sorry I have not gone over my max listing of 7.5 for 230 gr. FMJ or 9.1 for 185 gr. JHP. I don't generally go over max data, if I want more speed than the max data for a given powder, I look for a different powder or go get a different caliber. LM

 

[JDGray]

I would stop where the most accurate load is acheived. I load 230 FMJ with 7.0gr Power Pistol, its plenty accurate and packs a punch 816fps out of a 3" Kimber is good enough for me, and right in there with 230gr Golddot data.

If your loads get more accurate, the hotter you go, then stop where you see pressure signs. I've always found the most accurate load at or just above start loads. (YMMV)

 

[rcmodel]

Alliants latest manual lists .45 ACP Power Pistol loads as follows.

185 Speer GD seated 1.200" = 9.5 - 1,047 FPS
200 Speer GD seated 1.200" = 8.3 - 952 FPS
230 Speer TMJ-RN seated 1.260" = 8.1 - 916 FPS

I have no reason to believe these are not safe loads.

rc

 

[tango2echo]

Thanks Guys. My groups are improving with the increase in powder, so I will try to work them abit hotter and see what happens. I'm thinking 7.8-7.9 is going to be the deal.

What do you think about using magnum primers with this load? I have plenty of magnum primers on hand, but few regular large pistol.

t2e

 

[rcmodel]

There is never a need to use Magnum primers in the .45 ACP.

If you want to use them, it won't hurt anything except perhaps your standard deivation.

Just don't forget they are hotter & more powerful and may raise pressure at maximum load levels.

rc

 

[ljnowell]

Alliants latest manual lists .45 ACP Power Pistol loads as follows.

185 Speer GD seated 1.200" = 9.5 - 1,047 FPS
200 Speer GD seated 1.200" = 8.3 - 952 FPS
230 Speer TMJ-RN seated 1.260" = 8.1 - 916 FPS

I have no reason to believe these are not safe loads.

rc

That is the data that I load with power pistol from also. I have some 185gr GDHP loaded at 9.2gr and seated to 1.230. They are very accurate and have great expansion. Somewhere on here I have a thread with pictures. I also have some 230gr XTPs loaded with 7.9gr @ OAL of 1.245. These again are very accurate and have some real punch. BOth of these are virtual flamethrowers.

 

[JDGray]

Magnum primers= less powder

I use Winchester Large Pistol primers, listed as magnum or standard, non issue. Pressure signs are for the total package, magnum primers are like having a few more tenths of powder, so lighten your previous load with standard primers, and work back up

 

[Marlin 45 carbine]

I use Win primers with PP for .45acp +P and .45 Super with good results.
I won't list data for those loads since OP shoots regular .45acp.