45ACP: 185 vs 200 gr LSWC?

[Shrinkmd]

I am almost done loading up my 200 gr LSWC, and I noticed that these bullets also come in 185 grain. They are 5 bucks cheaper per thousand, which adds up over the long run.

What are the pros and cons of using the 185 vs the 200? Different feeding profile, less recoil, can be loaded hotter, no difference worth mentioning?

I want to make up medium target loads for a 1911. Powders on tap are Bullseye or Power Pistol, but I'd probably just use Bullseye.

Compared to 230 LRN, each batch would be about $15 bucks cheaper, which would add up a lot faster. For punching paper, I'm wondering why not go for the cheaper round. It's still a ".45" right?

 

[lgbloader]

Beats me...

I bought some 185 gr LSWC once by accident and still have em somewhere in the Cave. I like 200 Gr LSWC and 230 gr LRN and jacketed. It's just what I do...

I figure, if you like the snappy pop and your pistol likes to eat 'em and they look okay on paper or go "tink" when they hit the steel plate, go for it.

LGB

 

[243winxb]

In cast bullets, design is more important then weight. I find the Lyman 200gr bevel base to be the most accurate @50 yds of the 4 bullets i tested. Everyone will have a different answer on this one. In general i would say the 185gr's need to be pushed faster than the 200gr for top accuracy. Do your own testing and let us know what you find.

 

[Walkalong]

I always ended back up with 200 Gr lead SWC bullets in .45, but I do like the Berrys 185 Gr SWC, although their 200 Gr HP is my favorite of theirs.

 

[JASmith]

I've used both weights in cast bullets - at one time the 185 gr FMJ (not cast) was the light target load for the 1911 - they're still available, but I can't afford to buy them!

Most recently, I've been loading the 185 gr Bear Creek bullet in a light target load -- it's a pleasure to shoot! Gives excellent 25 yard accuracy and appears to work OK at longer ranges.

I've loaded the 200 gr cast bullets (a couple of different manufacturers) to what I think you are describing as a moderate target load. I can also get excellent accuracy at 25 yds (That's what I can easily get at our local range!).

Both bullets have splashed quart and 1 gallon bottles at 100 yds...

I did learn, however, that close attention needs to be given to both seating depth and crimp with these bullets.

Seating depth: Within max OAL for the .45 but seated out far enough that the shoulder of the bullet is slightly ahead of the mouth of the case. If the shoulder is even with the case mouth or slightly inside, the unsupported brass tends to catch of the feed ramp and frequent jams result.

Crimp Diameter: Important, but more important if your chamber and throat are tight. I've been using .467"-.468" in my son's after market target barrel.

To repeat, both will work fine and are capable of surprising accuracy provided you use quality bullets and pay attention to your hand-loading procedures and techniques