Originally Posted by CraigC
Originally Posted by akmtnrunner
The 45 meanwhile has the edge in heavier bullet options and when velocity is not as important.

But it doesn't have an edge. As I posted earlier, I tested two identical guns (4 5/8" Rugers) with every heavy cast bullet tested by Hodgdon.

The .44:
310gr at 1314fps
320gr at 1282fps
330gr at 1226fps
355gr at 1130fps

The .45's:
300gr at 1176fps
325gr at 1241fps
335gr at 1225fps
360gr at 1060fps

Where is the .45's heavy bullet advantage? I'm not trying to be combative but this seems to be a popular myth that the .45Colt is somehow better with heavy bullets. I don't think this perception is based in reality.



This is from Hogdon reloading site


44 mag

BULLET WEIGHT330 GR. BTB LFN GC
ManufacturerWinchester
Powder296
Bullet Diameter.430"
C.O.L.1.730"
Starting Load
Grains19.0
Velocity (ft/s)1,239
Pressure30,200 CUP
Maximum Load
Grains20.8
Velocity (ft/s)1,350
Pressure38,800 CUP


45 Colt

BULLET WEIGHT335 GR. CPB LFN GC
ManufacturerHodgdon
PowderH110
Bullet Diameter.452"
C.O.L.1.680"
Starting Load
Grains20.5
Velocity (ft/s)1,109
Pressure19,200 CUP
Maximum Load
Grains23.5
Velocity (ft/s)1,240
Pressure28,000 CUP


Notice 10,000 CUPS lower pressure for the 45 Colt and if the 80% rule is used the 45 Colt is under loaded


Here is chrono results with a 4 3/4" barrel 45 Colt

[Linked Image]

Last edited by jwp475; 02/24/16.

I got banned on another web site for a debate that happened on this site. That's a first