.45 Colt...45ACP

[Skinny 1950]

I am re-loading .45 Colt with Goex FFFG using a 200 gr. RNFP bullet and plan on getting dies for .45ACP and was wondering if anyone has suggestions for a smokeless powder to use in both rounds. I need a fairly "gentle" powder that will cycle an old (1917) 1911, I have shot factory ammo with the gun and it is pretty snappy and I want to mellow it down a bit to prevent any damage to the old timer.
Any suggestions welcome.....

 

[hk33ka1]

I Like Winchester 231 or Hodgdon HP-38

 

[scs]

Trail Boss

 

[fredfiset]

Trailboss is really great in 45 colt but i never tried it in 45 acp.
Tight group works well in both for me.

 

[ckid]

I have used Unique, Bullesye, 231 and Titegroup in both of these cartridges... I have have settled on Titegroup... It burns cleaner, meters well and gives great accuracy in both of these calibers... For me it is also easier and more inexpensive to purchase....

 

[Skinny 1950]

Thanks for the input everyone I will try either Titegroup or Trail Boss depending on what I can find locally.
I am new to re-loading and will have to get more precise measuring smokeless powder, I am used to using anywhere from 10-50 grains of black powder for my muzzle loaders. The cartridges that I want to load use 4-7 grains of smokeless...quite a difference from 23-35 grains of black powder for the .45 Colt.

 

[sail32]

See Handloader Magazine for December 2011, page 58 & 59.

 

[Pudelpointer]

Most 1911s run best with a 230 going around 800 fps. You may have cycling issues if you go lighter/slower, depending on the condition of your spring.

 

[VICIOUS]

HOWDY, TIGHTGROUP is a fast burning powder that is dirty when down loaded ,works great at proper pressures. HP 38 is slower burning and meters well ,it may be better suited to lighter loading but will be smokey and dirty ,especially if it is cold temture.

 

[Ganderite]

Your 1911 won't be hurt by shooting ammo up to full power. I have a number of them and have developed an accuracy load for each. Loads are well below max.

Two very flexible powders are Unique and IMR7625. Unique is flake powder and does not measure well in some throwers. 7625 meters well. They are similar in speed.

I use 7625 and TiteGroup.

 

[Garand]

I like 5.3 grains of W231 pushing a 200 grain LSWC in my 1914 manufactured Colt Commercial Models

 

[shooterace]

Powder

Skinny,

Try Henry at Budget Shooter Supply. His banner is above in the header. He has Tightgroup. Excellent prices and he is local to you.

Ace