Stock weight is 16lbs for the gov't model but I'm going to be shooting a lightweight 160gr load. My thought on this is getting a 14lb Wolf progressive spring. Anyone used this spring and bullet weight? I'm also going to use this load it in my Commander which is a stock 18lb spring so am thinking a 16lb Commander spring for it. Should be a nice lightweight paper puncher load.
45 gov't model recoil spring weight for 160gr Lee cast bullet
- Thread starter chook
- Start date
Incorrect approach. Lightweight bullets in 45acp have very short bearing surfaces, wobble down the bore, and wobble in flight. If you are seeking to maximize accuracy the appropriate set up is a 200 gr SWC such as a Hensley and Gibbs #68 with 3.7 grs bullseye or 4.3 to 4.6 grs WW231. Then to get best function install ten pound recoil spring and a 18-19 lb hammer spring. For the "short" line (25 yards) a 185swc with two tents less powder works well in timed and rapid. That's the consensus from ninety years of 45 bullseye competition, and my 40 years of experience at it. YMMV!
dr jim
dr jim
Thanks Doc, I just want a light load to conserve on cast lead, and powder as I just shoot for fun one day a week at my range. Not really too concerned about accuracy as long as it hits the paper. 
Any suggestions for setting up my gov't and commander for light loads of light bullets? All I need to do is function the action. Thanks.
Any suggestions for setting up my gov't and commander for light loads of light bullets? All I need to do is function the action. Thanks.
hatman1793
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
My advice is to switch out of 45 caliber if you want to conserve lead. The nice people at Wolverine are selling the high quality SAM 1911 autos & and their 9mm versions use way less lead.
Thanks Doc, I just want a light load to conserve on cast lead, and powder as I just shoot for fun one day a week at my range. Not really too concerned about accuracy as long as it hits the paper.
Saving 40 grains of lead mix is not going to matter much in the overall scheme of things. It is "recoil impulse" that operates a locked breech system, so if you go to lighter bullets you need to up the powder ( which costs more than the lead per round) but you will rapidly reach a dangerous situation that way. If all you want to do is plink, I'd say load the target loads suggested, get a standard 10 lb Wolfe spring and cut six to eight coils off and try it, you might have to cut more off (half a coil at a time) until you get it to function. Just remember to put the factory spring back before firing factory loads.
dr jim
