1911 reloads - .45 ACP

[Texas Size 11]

I just won an auction for my first 1911 and I am thinking ahead to reloads for it. I read somewhere that sub-compact 1911 need a faster burning powder, but wasn't sure if there are any "quirks" that I should take into consideration when loading for a full sized 1911.

Anybody have some insight or advice?

[PBratton]

I've been using Bullseye for my .45acp loads with no complaints.

[Oldgringo]

I'm using up Green Dot and 700-X that I've had for many years without any problems in not only .45 acp but also 9mm, .380 acp and .38 Spec. Additionally, these bullets work well and are about as cheap as any I've found.

EDIT:

Green Dot and 700-X may not be the best powder for .45 acp but there are published loads for all of the above AND it is what I have on hand.

[boomstick]

You can't get a much faster burning powder than Bullseye. It works well in any sized 1911.

[Texas Size 11]

I use Blue Dot in most of my other loads...I'm sure there is a recipe for .45 ACP for it. Just wondered if a middle of the road burn rate would decrease performance.

[ghostrider]

lead or jacketed? 185, 200, or 230gr bullets? IPSC major or light target?
:-)


I currently use Green Dot with 200gr LSWC.
Other good powders for .45ACP:
HS-6
WW231
N340
Longshot

I like blue dot, but find it works better in high pressure cartridges like 9mm and 357 mag.

[Houston1944]

I and many of my 45acp shooting friends use 200 gr LSWC with 4.0 gr Clays as a range load. This is a very light, clean burning, accurate load. When I want loads with some punch to them I use Power Pistol.

[Texas Size 11]

lead or jacketed? 185, 200, or 230gr bullets? IPSC major or light target?
:-)


I currently use Green Dot with 200gr LSWC.
Other good powders for .45ACP:
HS-6
WW231
N340
Longshot

I like blue dot, but find it works better in high pressure cartridges like 9mm and 357 mag.

Hornady XTP, 155gr .40

I've been using some of the recipes out of the Hornady Handbook.

[Gyrogearhead]

Going back in the history books on the 1911 I believe I read that Bullseye was the powder specified by the ordinance dept. I've been using 5 grains of Bullseye behind a 200 grain lead SWC for my 45 ACP loads and have been having excelent results in a 4-1/2 inch barrel.