Load Data Confirmation

[TomJ]

I'm about to load for the first time and wanted to check my load data. I'm basing this on information from Hodgdon's web site as well as Hornady's Handbook of Cartridge Reloading.

I'm loading a 200 gr RMR Roundnose Plated bullet using Federal Reprimed brass I also purchased from RMR (fantastic service, by the way). I'm using HP38 powder, and want to stay at lower velocities for now. Per Hodgdon's data I should use 5.2 grains to achieve 794 fps. Per Hornady's book, the maximum C.O.L. is 1.275, which is what I plan on using. If it matters, we'll be shooting a XD 45 tactical initially, and possibly a couple of 1911's or a 30s. The links to the data are below. Is there anything I should change?


http://www.shop.rmrbullets.com/45-200-Gr-RMR-Round-Nose-Plated-1000-Ct-45-200-RMR-RNP-1000-Ct.htm

http://www.shop.rmrbullets.com/45-ACP-RePrimed-Brass-1-PULLED-1000-Ct-45-ACP-RPBrass-1-Pul.htm

http://www.hodgdonreloading.com/data/pistol

 

[243winxb]

the maximum C.O.L. is 1.275

This may need adjustment for different guns? I would set the COL so that when i measure on the bullet, right in front of the case mouth, i get a measurement of .450" If the bullets diameter is .452"

 

[Toprudder]

I don't know about the RMR 200, but the 230 Hardcore will probably not plunk in any gun if set to a 1.275 COL. I have to seat those to less than 1.215" to plunk in my guns, typically I go 1.200".

Make a dummy round and seat your 200gn bullet starting long, check it with the plunk test, then keep seating a little deeper until it does plunk. I would go at least another 0.010" just to make sure. Check it in all your guns, as different guns will vary.

As for the charge, start low and work up. Make a few rounds of different charges. You might find that 5.2gn won't cycle one of your guns, especially if the bullet is seated long.

 

[Bronx kid]

1.275 is the max.OAL for a 45acp. Good chance that your bullet won't plunk test at that length & you will need to shorten it.

If you find that you need to use a shorter OAL then be sure that you lighten you powder accordingly.

Since this is your 1st.time reloading I hope you have read a few manuals.

Ask all the question you want or need to. There are no dumb questions. You have to understand what your doing & why.

It's all about being safe & having fun.

 

[TomJ]

Thanks for the input. I'll try a dummy round first, as suggested.

BronxKid, I've been reading the ABC's of Reloading as well as Hornady's book, and am taking my time in this. Thanks for the offer to help.

 

[Conservidave]

As others have said... 1.275 is the Max cartridge length for the .45 ACP and im doubtful you'll want to seat the 200g bullets at that length. Plunk testing will get you to where you need to be. Your charge data is for a jacketed hollow point bullet and will be OK to use but dont count on velocity, OAL or pressures to be correct for your bullet.
Be sure to work up carefully from the minimum to maximum charge weights and you'll probably find something in between that'll work for your intended purpose. Also, if it were me i would inspect that brass carefully and run it all through the sizer (minus the depriming pin) before i used it. Have fun and keep us posted on your progress.