Cost of reloading .45 ACP vs 9x19

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pilot_dc

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What would the cost of reloading each, not counting brass. Trying to decide if I'll be able to afford to shoot a 45 enough to make it worth choosing over a 9mm. I've run the numbers and found that 45 should cost around $0.15 per round, but I don't know enough about reloading to be confident in that estimate. I calculated 9mm at around $0.11 each. That's using FMJ 230gr bullets for the 45 and 124gr FMJ for the 9mm.

Thanks all.
 
1000 230g fmj frontier bullets from Higginsons is $82.....1000 124g are $55. That's the only cost difference between the 2 (not counting brass) when loading as small/large primers cost the same (about $2 per 100) and powder charges are pretty close (should get 1200-1500 rounds out of a pound of powder about $25).
Also, .45 brass will last forever........
 
Your calculations sound about right. If you don't loose any 45 ACP brass the costs are likely very close. Using a 200 gr. CMJ it cost me about 14.2 cents per round. Changing to 200 gr. LSWC it is about 12 cents. Cost of not having to squint to see the tiny 9 mm holes... priceless! :D

Check here for another thread on costs:
http://www.canadiangunnutz.com/forum/showthread.php?t=32596&page=2


Fudd
 
I know some reloaders who are really cheap. They pick range lead and use it to cast their bullets. I'm not sure how you would calculate the cost of time to pick, cast, size, then lube bullets. But I wouldn't do it to save $$$! There's also the initial cost of a furnace, mold, handles, and sizing equipment.
 
Roughly, reloading 9mm might only come 20% cheaper than reloading .45ACP, however, when you compare the reloaded ammunition cost compared to new commercial ammunition, the savings are MUCH bigger on 45 than on 9mm. I reload 45 by the truckload and if I do not count the time I spend reloading, since I do consider that a hobby, it comes roughly at 5$ per box of 50 rounds, while a new box of 45, let's say Winchester USA or Remmy UMC comes at least at 15$ a box + tax, so nearly 18$. With 9mm, reloaded ammunition is close to 4$ per box, but I've seen new Winchester USA for sale at 8$ per box. In both cases, there's no fee for the brass (picked up or kept brass)

So, 73% savings on 45, and 50% savings on 9.
 
Yes and if you extend your shooting sport to the hobby of bullet casting your costs for a box of ammo is the cost of the primers and powder and lube.

I have to tell you though you do not save a dime by reloading....you just shoot a heck of a lot more!

If you are shooting outside at an outdooor range go lead, easier on your gun and pocketbook.

Stay Safe
 
Agree with PoFF. Another factor is used brass for .45ACP comes out at $100/M vs around $40/M or less per for 9mm, and at times is hard to find. While you get many more loadings out of .45ACP vs 9mm, if you go to a big IPSC match where you have to leave your brass it can add $40- $50 to your cost.
 
JohnC said:
While you get many more loadings out of .45ACP vs 9mm, if you go to a big IPSC match where you have to leave your brass it can add $40- $50 to your cost.
Click to expand...

Bah, just give your day for scoring and help dismantling the setup after the match, then not only you'll get your brass back, but you'll hog everyone's else brass!:D Unfortunately, more and more people are shooting .40S&W in IPSC... :(
 
Cost of reloading .45 acp vs 9 X 19

I have all the appropriate equipment needed to cast all the bullets I used to shoot.
A box of 50 rounds (45 ACP) including 200gr swc bullets + wlp primer (without the brass) cost me max $1.71 AND $1.50 for 130gr RN + wsp primer.
I will never understant that someone casting his own bullets maybe consider as cheap person. MONSIEUR BCP said << I know some reloaders who are really cheap..>>. I do not know why he is saying that. However, one thing I am sure of is I really enjoy doing casting it is not a job.
 
If you decide to cast, the best way is the 45ACP. Reason is the ACP works at very low pressures, ideal for WW and Alox lube. If you shoot the 9mm, you will have to play with the alloy, heat treat or water quench. They can be really picky and leading in some pistols is a royal pain.

I switched to a XD in 40S&W and that works well with WW and water quenching. An extra step but I just love the XD.

I use the Lee 6 Cavity tumble lube molds. You can make quite a bit of bullets in short order. Roughly 700 to 800 per hour if you have everything set up. The initial cost for the mold is equal to 1000 commercial bullets. After that is FREE.

For lube, I am using the lee alox liq and that takes care of that chore in a minute. Using a lubsizer would increase loading time enormously.

I am lucky that I get my WW for basically free. So the cost is powder, primer, lube and lots cases (yes, they dissolve into the concrete floor). About 4.5cents if you don't include the brass.

For short range plinking, I use my Mech Tech in 45ACP and XD in 40. dirt cheap noise making and accurate to 180yds.

Fun, fun, fun...

Jerry

PS if shooters in the OK valley are interested in 9mm stuff, I have some cast and jacketed bullets I will not be using.
 
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