Need help w/ loads for Ranier Plated Bullets

[3006mv]

I didn't get a response from Ranier via email so was wondering if anyone has loaded these for a .45acp. I have their HP 230 gr. plated bullets and want to use Unique powder, but don't know if I should use Lead cast or FMJ load data. Alliant's website has for the 230 FMC to use 6.0gr; 230JHP 6.4gr; and 230 Lead 5.0 gr. I used 5.6gr it goes bang and cuts nice holes. I don't have a chronograph. Should I be using closer to the lead cast load data or the FMJ data? Should I go lower than 5.0? http://www.rainierballistics.com/mainframe.htm http://www.alliantpowder.com/reloaders/RecipeList.aspx?gauge=&gtypeid=1&title=Pistols and Revolvers http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=158548

 

[Mark whiz]

I load the Ranier bullets in .38Sp, .357Mag, & .45ACP and have found that using the lower end jacketed bullet recomendations seems to work best with any of the powders I've tried. Basically a compromise between the lead & jacketed suggested load-outs usually works well.
For the record, I've gotten really good results using the Ranier 200gr SWCs with 9.6gr of AA#5 out of my Springfield Mil-Spec 1911-A1.

 

[rbernie]

I've been shooting Ranier 230HPs with starchy (book max) Unique and Bullseye loads with good results. My current standard for this bullet is 6gr of Unique. No problems.

 

[JDGray]

Load them to lead specs, or reduce jacketed data by 10%. Load safe!

 

[Canuck-IL]

Rainier's have very soft plating, much softer than Berry's or Montana Gold...you can load to lead specs with good results.
/Bryan

 

[BobC]

I have loaded plated bullets using the recipe for lead bullets and got a bullet stuck in the barrel (twice). Costly and embarassing.

Now I use the starting loads for jacketed bullets.

 

[66gt350]

Hey 3006,

Give Rainier a call. I had some questions...see earlier post...and the lady that I talked with was very helpful.

Rob

 

[rbernie]

Load them to lead specs, or reduce jacketed data by 10%.

I'm curious - based upon what experiences with the bullet in question (Ranier 230gr hollowpoint) is this recommendation made?

 

[cordex]

CAUTION: The following post includes loading data beyond currently published maximums for this cartridge. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. Neither the writer, The High Road, nor the staff of THR assume any liability for any damage or injury resulting from use of this information.
(mildly so, but still)

While not the 230g HP, I used to shoot the 230g RN Rainier bullets on top of 5.8g Hodgdon Universal Clays - which was, at the time - .2g less than the maximum jacketed load. They shot great. Since then, I think that Hodgdon has dropped the maximum load for jacketed 230g bullets from 6.0g to 5.6g, so you'd probably want to load down considering this adjustment.

 

[rabrog]

I scored an awesome deal on 2000 147 grain 9mm bullets a few weeks ago. When I contacted them via email for load data -- as the box labeling was a little confusing as to whether they were plated or jacketed (they state "Total Copper Jacketed") it did take them a long time to get back to me. I probably should have just called them. The answer was what JDGray already posted -- use lead data, or jacketed data reduced by 10%.

 

[Steve in PA]

230gr FMJ and 6.0gr of Unique is my pet load.

 

[JDGray]

rberni,
That is what Rainiers web site states. I load 230gr round nose over 3.9gr Clays, it gives me 730fps. I could go slower yet, but it shoots pretty soft. This load is still in the major power factor.