Going to start reloading .45ACP ammo, what die?

[xmanpike]

I am thinking about getting the LEE deluxe 4 die pistol set. Anyone have luck with this or have one that they would recommend instead? Thanks

 

[jcwit]

Loaded many thousands of rounds with one. Any of the major mfg. die sets will turn out excellent ammo if the operator sets up the equipment correctly, and works up accurate loads for his arms.

Those that did not make a good product are long since out of the business.

 

[emb]

You may want to look at their carbide set. That way you don't have to lube the cases. Otherwise, it's a good die that will do the job quite well.

 

[jcwit]

My only complaint of Lee dies is the lock rings, I just like the type that lock with a split ring better. Just my personal preference.

 

[Walkalong]

Ditto on the rings.

 

[xmanpike]

if I am going to be reloading 230gr FMJ. Which powders do you guys like the best? and any certain load?

 

[Jumping Frog]

My only complaint of Lee dies is the lock rings, I just like the type that lock with a split ring better. Just my personal preference.

If I was loading on a single stage press, where every time I wanted to switch an operation I had to install a die, then I would agree that being able to lock the ring would be a huge difference.

Since I am using the Lee Loadmaster and each of my calibers are stored in their own corresponding turret, the Lee lock rings aren't a disadvantage to me. Basically, I setup the dies once, made sure the lock rings were good and tight, and now I just swap the turrets in and out.

 

[Walkalong]

5.5 Grs of W-231 is hard to beat for an overall good load with 230 Gr FMJ. Others work well too, but W-231 meters well, is fairly clean, cost effecient, stocked a lot of places (normally), and is very accurate in .45 ACP.

 

[tactikel]

Be sure to get carbide dies, it is money well spent. +1 on not liking the lock rings on Lee dies (I have 2 sets) I ended buying rcbs replacement rings with lock nuts from Midway. I prefer RCBS dies.

 

[jcwit]

You're asking about loads. Now don't take this wrong but if you haven't buy some reloading manuals and do some reading. If you have done this or have some experience hey OK.

Just don't get all your info from the net.

Hope this helps!

With that said, Walkalong will not lead you wrong.

 

[xmanpike]

I have multiple reloading manuals, and completely understand where youre coming from. Just figured I'd ask if any of the guys around here had anything they swore by.

 

[jcwit]

Good, sounds like you're on the right track.

Now if you can just find components. It WILL get better.

 

[xmanpike]

been a nightmare. Have brass, have primers, need bullets!!!!!

 

[jcwit]

Try wideners.com.
they still have some 168 gr bullets at not to bad a price.
Cancell the above, Had a bad senior moment, also the nightly meds are taking effect. I was thinking 30/06, not 45 ACP. Had been reading about the Garand.

Might try casting your own, it turns into another hobby. If you can find a mold. Everythings in such short supply, you'd think we live in a third world country.

 

[xmanpike]

thanks for all the help guys!

 

[TheLaxPlayer]

I use the Lee dies and have no complaints, just wish I payed attention and got the carbide ones instead.

I've been using bullseye for the powder, but using a RCBS powder measure (the one that comes with the rockchucker supreme) it doesn't meter well at all. Measuring out 5 grains I was getting anywhere from 4.6-5.5 which just isn't acceptable, I actually had to weigh each powder load, and all I have is a manual scale

 

[SASS#23149]

I use the Lee dies and have no complaints, just wish I payed attention and got the carbide ones instead.

You only have to buy the sizer die to make life sooooooooo much simpler,it's the only one that is 'carbide'.

I like the lee rings but then I set them and leave them on tool heads.I'll use a split ring for single-staging also.
you'll do fine with the Lee set and having the 4 die set makes adjusting depth and crimp a lot easier.
If you can't find bullets,shoot cast bullets IF you're gun can shoot them..I read that Glocks have a problem with them.Most cast bullet suppliers are still going strong.

 

[benzuncle]

Chimin' In

I use the Lee Carbide 4-die set. I've had zero problems with them. I've loaded enough 50-round boxes to have paid for the Lee Classic Turret Press and everything else I bought to get started reloading. The dies are still in excellent shape.

I load my 230gr 45ACP's with 5.3gr of HP-38 (Win 231) and 4.0 to 4.5gr of Bullseye.

 

[xmanpike]

Now if only the lee deluxe pistol set was available anywhere for .45 ACP! Only see it on ebay and they want almost twice the price for it!

 

[TheLaxPlayer]

benzuncle - Is the 4.0 to 4.5 grains of Bullseye for the 230gr 45ACP you posted correct? I loaded some at 4.5 and had very dirty cases and very low recoil. Most data I could find recommended 5.0 grains as a starting load.

 

[bobotech]

I like the Lee dies as well and I don't really care about the lock rings because I use a Hornady Lock and Load and I just tighten the snot out of the ring to the bushing and they never move again.

 

[The Bushmaster]

Guess I don't need to add anything here. It's all been said.

DO try the W-231...

 

[bobotech]

I look at Win231 as the almost perfect 45acp powder.

 

[tactikel]

+1 on Bullseye being dirty. I like Tightgroup 4.5 gr with a 230 gr. It cycles my XD-45 perfectly, is clean, accurate, and economical. My buddy swears by Clays for 200 gr SWC target loads -claims it is super clean, and superbly accurate (he shoots IPSA), I have yet to try it myself.

 

[RustyFN]

I also like Titegroup but am getting ready to try some WST. I use the Lee four die set and am happy with them. Like JC said all manufactures make good dies, you just have to figure what brand has the features you like.
Rusty