Compression Die for .45 Colt?

[DMF38]

Hi everyone! I'm just starting to get into handloading blackpowder in .45 Colt cartridges, for my Ruger New Vaquero. Is it really necessary to use a compression die for that? I loaded some with 34 grains by volume of FFF and had to compress it pretty hard to seat the bullets deep enough. I just used the seating die for that. Is it likely that would be enough to deform the bullets? Thanks.

 

[AzShooter]

Using the seating die is not the best way to do it. I had most luck with a compression die. You can order them from Buffalo Arms at a reasonable price.

 

[timothy75]

Check your die I routinely seat 40grs without overdue stress. You can also trickle the powder as you pour it in to free up some room.

 

[Steve499]

I've settled for 32 grains of Swiss FFF behind the 250 grain pure lead bullet from a Lyman mold. I was getting bullet deformation with heavier charges and backed off until the flat on the bullet's nose stayed the same size after loading as before loading, although, I can't say the deformed bullets were any less accurate.

I was shooting targets tacked onto some unsplit tree trunk blocks the other day and decided to see what kind of penetration I was getting from that 32 grain load. I have no idea what penetration into wood means as related to penetration into tissue and bone, but here's a picture.

Steve

 

[timothy75]

That sounds like a good load to me, I also like shooting 30grs. If you want to have a ball try some 45 S&W's with 230's and 30grs FFF. Thats probably the greatest round ever honestly. Powerfull, efficient, accurate, controlable.