45 Colt load data search - 250 gr XTP and Red Dot

[Tallinar]

Hello,

I am looking for published load data for a 250 gr JHP/XTP in .45 Colt using Red Dot, which stays within SAAMI spec.

The Lyman #49 manual I have only appears to have Red Dot data for .45 Colt in lead bullets, so maybe I’m meant to take a hint that Red Dot is not a viable powder for JHP expansion in .45 Colt while remaining in SAAMI spec. Even so, I have a box of XTP’s, and I’d like to make a moderately-powered defensive load using the powders I have on hand, which at this moment is basically just Red Dot. I’ve used Red Dot with 250 gr RNFP with good results, but hoping to get some data on JHP as well.

Anyone have any published data for this they can reference?

Thanks!

 

[AJC1]

Looked in all my manuals and the highest jacked bullet was 200 grains listed in the speer manual. Based on the listings I found I would load between 5.5 to 6 grains for a test. I dont know about any weird red dot quirks but tightgroup is faster and is still listed. Even at 6 I would not have any concern of an overpressure. Check case fill and see where your at.

 

[black mamba]

Alliant's online data from a few years ago shows the 260 gr Speer JHP with 7.1 gr of Bullseye for 841 fps. With Red Dot and a lighter 250 gr bullet, 7 grains should be perfectly safe.

 

[murf]

speer #11 shows min/max of 6.1/6.6 for red dot with a 260 grain hollow point bullet. that max should be gtg (good to go) with your 250 grain xtp, but, as usual, i would recommend starting at the minimum and work up.

note: velocities are 755/818 fps. test gun is a colt saa w/5.5" barrel. primer is cci 300.

luck,

murf

 

[Tallinar]

Thanks guys!

 

[Vern Humphrey]

This is from the Cast Boolets website:

"I have used 9.0 Red Dot under a 255 grain Keith bullet for many years, in my Ruger Blackhawk. It gives about 1050 fps."

This clearly should be considered a "Ruger Only" load.

 

[magyars4]

In my one book, one caliber... complete reloading manual for the 45 Colt...copyright 1995... there's nothing listed for the XTP 250 gr.
There is however a load listed for the 240 gr Sierra bullet JHC and Reddot
6.1, 750 fps
6.6, 800 fpa
7.1, 850 fps
And max load 7.6 900 fps
There are heavier loads for Dan Wesson, Ruger and Contender listed

 

[Tallinar]

Sounds like I should be safe to start at 6.0 grains and see how we do from there. This is the same charge I use with 250 gr RNFP.

Hornady advertises the intended velocity for these bullets to be 700 to 1500 fps, so if I can hit 750-800 fps, that will be good enough for my intended use case for these. Will be using a 4 5/8" barrel New Vaquero.

Thanks again!

 

[murf]

the xtp is a "controlled expansion" bullet, meaning the higher the velocity, the more the hollow point opens up. if the velocity range starts at 700 fps, your bullet will expand, but not all the way. this is not bad as less expansion means more penetration.

luck,

murf