Loading WSF in 45acp; any tips?

[Col. Plink]

Learning to load, found a 6.6gr for 230fmj w/ WSF.
Any advice loading w/ WSF? Thx!

 

[Walkalong]

I have not used it in .45 ACP, but it is similar to AA #5, which I have used for full power 230 Gr .45 ACP loads.

If it were me, I would start low and work it up to around 830 to 850 FPS, and pick something that felt and shot good.

If I was looking for light loads, I would go with WST.

 

[LiveLife]

I use WSF for full-power loads in 9mm/40S&W/45ACP. I would not suggest new reloader start out with near max/max loads using relatively slower burn rate powder.

As Walkalong posted, WST and other faster burn rate powders are better suited for lower pressure mid-to-high range load data loads that produce milder recoil.

I consider Unique/Universal to be the line that separates faster pistol powders from slower powders. For 45ACP mid range loads, I would use W231/HP-38 and faster burn rate powders - https://www.hodgdon.com/burn-rate.html

 

[Col. Plink]

If I switch powders soon, I may take the advice on the others.

To reiterate, I'm using WSF. Looking for tips loading that in .45acp and possibly .38/.357
Thx!

 

[zxcvbob]

The little testing I have done with WSF with a chronograph, it seems to be interchangeable with Herco but not as bulky. I wish Hodgdon would publish more data for it 'cause it's a good powder; they just rehash the very old (and limited) Winchester data.

 

[LiveLife]

My load is with 185 gr Remington Golden Saber JHP but here are current Hodgdon and 1999 Winchester load data for you to reference:

Current Hodgdon load data - http://www.hodgdonreloading.com/data/pistol

230 gr Hornady FMJ FP WSF OAL 1.200" Start 5.7 gr (766 fps) 12,100 CUP - Max 6.4 gr (851 fps) 15,700 CUP

1999 Winchester load data - http://www.thehighroad.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=159609&stc=1&d=1329800605

230 gr FMJ WSF Start 5.7 gr (755 fps) 14,900 PSI - Max 6.6 gr (885 fps) 19,200 PSI

 

[Hondo 60]

The problem I've seen with medium to slow powders is unburnt left over powder.

In my experience you have to load on the higher side to get all the powder to burn.

YMMV

 

[Blue68f100]

I use it for full power loads. Burns clean once you get near the upper end. Meters very accurately.