TexasCHLforum.com

I am looking for IDPA loads. I shoot my Glock 30 (that is what I carry) in matches.

What are the general rules for loading for a 3.5-4" barrels rather than the usual 5" barrel most tests for 45 ACP are done in?

I will be using 230 gr. FMJ bullets. Winchester WST (4.5 gr) has been suggested and that is what I am leaning toward at this time but have never used it and am open to suggestions.

Is WST fairly clean?

I know these are fairly basic questions but I just ordered my press (Lee Classic Turret) and hope to soon get started. I am hoping you can save me a bit on the learning curve. I'll be using CCI or Wolf primers.

Thanks.

I've only reloaded with Bullseye so can't really help you there. I don't think the 1.5 inches of barrel would matter much but if it does then you may want to consider a faster burning powder.

I'm not sure about the Lee Classic Turret but I use a Lee Loadmaster and they only recommend Winchester and CCI primers. I've heard of Federal primers going off on Lee during reloading.

I've put a considerable amount of rounds down range (IDPA and otherwise) out of a Glock 36 with the following recipe that has worked well for me:

230 gr. FMJs
5.6 gr. Win. 231

I've never used WST so I can't help you there.

My "standard" competition load is a 230 grain cast RN (cast bullets are not recommended for Glocks) on top of 4.8 grains of 700-X. Pretty much duplicates GI Hardball ballistics out of a 5" 1911.

If using an FMJ, I might drop the charge a few tenths of a grain to start.

I started using 700-X when I was shooting a lot of trap and skeet - it's a good shotgun powder, and pretty cheap when purchased in 12 lb kegs! It's just a little slower than Bullseye, and works well to duplicate standard pressure loads in .45 ACP, 9mm P, .38 Spec., and .32 ACP.