Developing a Powder Charge for Plated Bullets

[.223Savage]

Of my 3 manuals, Sierra, Hornady and Lee, only Lee lists powder charges for copper plated lead bullets. Alas Lee has no listings for the W231 powder I have on hand. I am loading 230 grain round nose copper plated bullets in .45 ACP.

Since there there is only a .2 grain difference between the minimum charge weights for jacketed and lead bullets should I just split the difference and go with that.

Also, any thoughts overall length? Again here should I just go with the COL for jacketed and lead bullets?

Thank you all.

 

[LUTNIT]

Plated bullets are normally loaded with cast bullet data (no plating). They can go slightly higher though. In pistols I don't think it makes too much of a difference; especially 45 ACP where velocities are so low. Just make sure the data is for the same weight of bullet and a similar design/shape.

For OAL whatever fits in your mag, fits in your chamber, and feeds reliably is the proper length.

Personally I would use data for any similar shape projectile of the same weight (starting at stating values of course) and load them to whatever OAL functions well. A decent rule of thumb is 1/2 the diameter of the bullet should be in the case. So 45 ACP should be seated so .225" is below the mouth of the case; more if necessary for proper fit/feeding.

 

[Chuckbuster]

I load them with an appropriate powder charge for that particular bullet weight; without much concern about whether or not it is plated. For example, if it is a load that I use for cast, I'll also use it with the same weight plated bullet, likewise for fmj.

 

[Spawn-Inc]

I load them with an appropriate powder charge for that particular bullet weight; without much concern about whether or not it is plated. For example, if it is a load that I use for cast, I'll also use it with the same weight plated bullet, likewise for fmj.

+1.