45 ACP loads for USPSA

[scshaffer06]

Hey guys does anyone have any loads that you like for production USPSA. I'm shooting a 4" service model XD 45.

[Texasdoc]

when I shoot I use Blazer Brass 230 FMJ as I get it for 10.85 per 50 and its the cheapest ammo that I have found that works good in my Pro-Carry.


Doc

[ShootingStar]

scshaffer06,

I use a 5" Para in Limited and L-10. If you're into the game then by all means, you will want to load for the lowest power factor since everything in Production is scrored as minor whether you make major or not. Personally, my goal isn't not just the game. The game motivates me, but I don't want to load too soft and then in a defensive situation, find that I can't handle the recoil difference well between the full-power loads and my IPSC loads. Sure you'll still be able to shoot, but not your best if all you're used to is light loads.

Don't make the mistake of loading right at the lowest Power factor though. If you do your velocity testing on a warm day, your power factor will be lower on a cooler day. Give yourself at least a margin of 5 so you don't end up being dropped from a match if your bullet goes too slow to at least make minor.

Here's what I use for, practice and matches big and small. Precision polymer coated 200gr LSW. This bullet feeds perfect every time in my gun. I have also used regular lead LWC in case you can't get the polymer coated. LSWC cut a perfectly rounds and very Big hole which can help with points or hurt you when you hit a no-shoot. Primers, whatever's the cheapest; usually Winchester. Powder, Titegroup which I like because you don't need as much so it's a little more economical. I'll leave the load for you to work out as our barrel lengths are different and I don't know if you want to load for a Major or Minor PF. I came up with this load a couple of years ago and have never changed it. When I ran it through my chronograph, the velocity was enough to make major + 5 for a little cushon. It's not a hot load, but it's close enough to be easy on the gun and give enough recoil for more realistic training.

Hope this helps.
-ss

[scshaffer06]

Hey thanks for the info, what Para are you using? I have had my eye on the Para 14 for some time now, i think i want to try a double stack 1911.

I may load down to a 185 grain at 800 fps, that would give me a power factor of 148 I am shooting production only right now with this load i think it will cut the recoil way down for faster follow up shots and still give some extra power for a really cold day. What do you think the best speed is for a round down range for accuracy? I have always been told 800 is about as low as you want to go for a 45

[ShootingStar]

I'm using a P-14 Limited that I bought about 5 years ago. It's been a great gun. I shot well right out of the box.

As far as velocity, in IPSC you really don't need the best accuracy. I do very well on those rare occasions when we shoot out to 40 or 50 yards. I have never paid much attention to velocity as the gun was more than accurate for what I did.

One thing about a double stack .45, you gotta make sure your had fits it. If you have small hands, then you'll really have to work to be able to shoot it as well as a gun that fits you hand. We have some small women who shoot double stack race guns and some do well, but it's harder to master a gun that's too big for you hads.

-ss