45 LC - Best Metering Powder

[RPCVYemen]

I am learning to reload for 45 LC. So far, I have used Trail Boss and Unique. The Trail Boss was a good learning powder - can't get a double charge.

I got some Unique, but with my Lyman Power Measure, I have a hard time getting loads consistency - I can't seem to get any more accurate than +- .10 gr.

Not knowing anything, I would expect spherical powders to meter more consistently.I am thinking of getting some 231 or Titegroup next.

So spherical powders meter more consistently?

Mike

 

[Stinger]

You'll be hard pressed to find a powder and measure capable of greater than 0.1 +/- accuracy. Powder measures that throw better than that probably cost more than you are willing to part with, and are definitely more than you likely need. If you are getting that good with Unique then stick with it. It is the classic 45Colt powder.

 

[Guy B. Meredith]

Spherical powders do meter better. I like and am currently using 231 for .38 spl, don't know about .45 LC. I also like Accurate Arms.

Random samples from a run on my Hornady LNL usually give dead on measurements. Don't know whether this is standard for the LNL.

 

[highlander 5]

I've had many powder measures by RCBS and Dillon and +/-.01 gr is the best I can get but then I don't run full tilt loads all that often.

 

[CZ57]

And, since powder measures work by gravity, spherical powders with high bulk density will improve metering. Small physical grain size is also a contributor. AA#7 is a great example but probably not the best choice for .45 Colt until you get into higher pressure loads. AA#5 is nearly as dense and see's a lot of use. The powder I'd recommend is Ramshot True Blue. At 935 grams per liter it is very dense and has a small physical grains size, one of the smallest granules you're likely to see and the grains are as close to ball as any spherical I've used in many years. The problem with #5 or True Blue is that in standard pressure .45 Colt loads, you will not get high load density and double charges are a potential danger. Charge all of your cases and carefully inspect them before you seat bullets and you'll be fine.

 

[Snapping Twig]

I've been using W231/HP38 for more than 20 years with great success in non magnum calibers. Recently I came upon a load of 7.5g 231 under a 255g cast bullet for my 25-7. I like it very much, meters well in my Dillon 550B - no problems whatsoever and extremely accurate.

 

[FLORIDA KEVIN]

i have been using the Lee Perfect Powder Measure and after measuring several charges and weighing them i was amazed at how close it measures , within 1/10th grain ! i am using imr 4227 in Casull 454 ! i just bought some LiL Gun but havent tried it yet ! Good Luck

 

[Jim Watson]

Agree with Stinger, +/- 0.10 grain with Unique is terrific. Closer than in factory loads. No need to worry or change powder.

 

[JustsayMo]

2400 meters well and produces good accuracy and velocity in my Blackhawk and Marlin in 45 Colt.

IMR 4227 meters very well too and gives me slightly better performance but it like 2400 leaves the bore pretty speckled at 45 Colt pressures.

HS 7 is good too but I think they've discontinued it. Shoots a little cleaner with good velocity but not quite as accurately in loads I've tried.

For Colt and Replica levels, 231 meters well and has delivered good accuracy. It sooty and the velocity is on the low end.

AA#5 has a lot going for it. Does everything well except velocity but even there it's about mid pack.

My favorite powder for 45 Colt/replica level loadings is SR 4756. Fluffy so it fills the case well but meters well in my Lee Powder measure. Shoots clean(er) and has produced excellent accuracy in my guns. Velocity is near the top for these lower pressure loads.