45 Colt: Crimp into the cannelure?

[Samgotit]

I know OAL in many cases is just a suggestion, but I have to ask for the sake of my currently attached hand.

I'm loading for 45 Colt with Missouri Bullet Company's 200 Grain RNFP. If I crimp into the cannelure, I get an OAL of 1.675". Lyman 48 has no direct data for a lead RNFP, but for 200 grainers the book says 1.557"

Brass is Starline and in spec.

The rounds fit my chamber with no problem if loaded long. What say you, Gentlemen?

 

[rcmodel]

I say if a cast bullet has a crimp groove use it.

That you can't find an OAL for the exact bullet leaves you no other choice.

I don't even bother to measure revolver loads if the bullet has a cannelure or crimp groove.

That IS the OAL for that bullet, and there is nothing you can do about it!

rc

 

[Samgotit]

Cool. Thanks, RC.

 

[loadedround]

RC's right again.

 

[MMCSRET]

If it fits in the chamber and doesn't protrude out the front and prevent the cylinder from turning you are good to go.
I was loading for my new Freedom Arms Model 97 a few years ago and discovered that their cylinder is slightly shorter than a Ruger NMBH. The FA would not accept anything longer than 1.6".

 

[Walkalong]

I don't even bother to measure revolver loads if the bullet has a cannelure or crimp groove.

That IS the OAL for that bullet, and there is nothing you can do about it!

Yep.

I do record it, but just because I record the O.A.L. for all my loads, as well as diameter and length of the bullet.

 

[ADKWOODSMAN]

I do as RC and walkalong, have for every lead bullet.

 

[ReloaderFred]

I cast that same bullet and I crimp into the crimping groove. It works, as long as it fits the cylinder. In my case, I'm putting them through an 1894 Marlin CB in .45 Colt. That bullet feeds very smoothly through the lever action rifle.

Hope this helps.

Fred

 

[Randy1911]

I have loaded 1000's of 45 Colts and always just seated to the crimp groove. Never measured one and never had a problem.

 

[Samgotit]

Another check if you guys would indulge:

I'm using 8.5gr of Unique under a 200gr lead bullet in a SAA USFA Rodeo. This is the minimum load for a jacketed bullet per Lyman. I see were many recommend to reduce by 10% for lead, but this is a minimum load to start. I ask because I'm getting a perfectly reliable 8.5gr throw with Lee's autodisk (1.02 hole). For some bizarre reason the smaller holes don't meter so well.

Sound good? I guess I'm being over cautious 'cause that .45 Colt is one big, honkin', slightly intimidating, freakin' cartridge.

 

[Randy1911]

Samgotit, Don't be surprised if the next lot of powder you buy gives a different charge. powders vary lot to lot. At least that was my experience.

 

[rcmodel]

I'm using 8.5gr of Unique under a 200gr lead bullet in a SAA USFA Rodeo.

8.5 Unique is a perfectly fine, and safe load using a 250 - 255 grain lead bullet.

Your 8.5/200 load is fine.

rc