Powder choices for .45 Colt?

[Paden]

Nov 7, 2015 14:54:40 GMT -5 pwb said:

Any suggestions regarding any powder I don’t have are also welcome.

For mid-level pressure loads I really like VV-N350 with a bullet like the 270-SAA. It's VERY clean and accurate. (Lots of guys say they're accepting of, or even prefer lots of smoke and a subsequently filthy gun. Not me; I really appreciate clean burning powder).

Nov 7, 2015 20:29:25 GMT -5 nolongcolt said:

The New Vaquero and mid frame flat tops are not as strong the full size Blackhawk, Bisleys and original full size Vaqueros.

Important to note that the Bisley gripframe is increasingly available on the smaller frame guns. Gripframe shape is not a reliable indicator of mainframe strength.

[pwb]

Nov 8, 2015 12:21:17 GMT -5 Sarge said:

For factory level loads I've burned a lot of 231/HP38 and it is a dandy powder for that purpose. Since it became scarce I have switched to Universal and don't believe I lost a thing in the process. I'd used it in other cartridges but it really comes into its own in the 45 Colt. It's a splendid powder for 850-1000 fps loads.

I've also used HS6 for 1050-1100 fps with complete satisfaction and fine accuracy. W296 has been my heavy load powder for decades and it's been great in the 45 Colt as well.

When I started loading for pistols years ago Universal was my go to powder; especially for .38 and .357, when the blight hit Universal became non-existent to the point I didn't think I would ever see it again, one day HP-38 and W-231 began to show up on the shelves at my LGS in quantities that it became boring; but since it was the only pistol powder on the shelves that would suit my needs I naturally began to stock up on it and it has since become one of my favorite powders...Universal is just now making a come back at my favorite LGS.

[lscg]

as several have suggested the 270SAA bullet is a good one. I just started using it and am getting really great accuracy using 19 grains of 2400. this load would be too hot for your flat top though. as Brian Pearce suggests in this article 17 to 18 grains of 2400 would be safe in your gun. he also lists loads with this bullet using many other powders.

www.riflemagazine.com/magazine/PDF/HL%20246partial.pdf

[ProGun]

Theoretically (according to Quickload), 9.5 grs Unique and 9.0 grs Universal will push a 270-SAA about 950 fps, while remaining in the 21,000 PSI ball park.

[whiterabbit]

I am using bluedot. I found it groups as well as H110. The only thing is that although it's a pussycat in a 7.5" barrel with no flash, in a 3.5 barrel it's a wild ride and the muzzle flash is absurd.

[gman50]

I have great results with 4227 with either the 270 SAA or a 260K in my flat top. With the ACP cylinder 231 with the 200 grain SWC H&G 68 copy. I had to open the cylinder throats some but it is now very accurate. ACP's are a joy to shoot in this package.