250 grain loads for454

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LDCutshaw

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First time to chime in. I have been looking for a quality full power load for my 454' s. I think that I have done this and wanted to share.

I purchased 250 grain FTX bullets from my local supplier here in Melbourne Florida. What I do is, after all the prep work is done to the brass, I place my powder charge of Lil gun into the brass (starline). I won't mention charge weights but you can use the data for 300 grain HP-XTP bullets as a start point and then go from there.

The FTX is rated at 2200 fps upper limit AND it is designed for rifle type pressures being fired from a 450 Bushmaster. Although I don't know the SD and BC for this bullet, it is better than the typical bullet points commonly used.

My process:
1-after the powder load is placed, I use the bullet seating Lee die, and seat the bullet. About .3 of an inch into the case.
2-I take a single edge razor and cut the tip off of the FTX so that it is flush with the brass.
3- seat the bullet to allow for maximum length but short enough for the cylinder of the weapon you use.
4-I use a Lee crimp die and set a minimum .5 turn after contact. You can always use more crimp. I have yet have a bullet pull.

I have shot these loads in my Alaskan and full size red hawk. The power of the round is noticeable the first time you light one off. Use prudence and wisdom as you develop loads. I think that you will like this load. The hornady 250 grain XTP IS NOT RATED FOR HIGH VELOCITY, 1500 fps is about it's top rating. The FTX will do much better.
 
Better rated for the higher pressure created by a Casull run full tilt, I guess. I did not know that about the FTX, though.

Hornady's standard 250 and 300 XTP bullets do not have the extra thick jacket and harder core that their "Mag" line does. The "Mag" version is the one recommended for use in 454 at max loadings. Hornady doesn't make a 250 XTP Mag that I'm aware of, only a 300. I guess the OP is saying that the FTX bullet, with his modifications of the tip, is an acceptable 250 gr option.

Supposedly, the primary eater of forcing cones and gas cutting is using a bullet that is too soft, with ball powder at high pressure in the 454. The 45 caliber bullets Freedom Arms sells are hard. REAL hard.
 
Hornady offers the XTP Mag in a 240gr .452 as well.

That is the bullet I use in my .454 Casull (and in a very short time in my new Rossi 92 stainless in .454 Casull, I pick it up next Monday).

I run them pretty much full house (according to published loads that came in my FA manual). Very accurate.

Dan
 
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