Load data for TAC-XP in 45ACP...

[BurkGlocker]

Just got some Barnes TAC-XP .451" 160gr bullets to load up in .45 ACP, and I cant find any load data using Power Pistol for these bullets. I'm thinking that the 'coppers' are comprable in length as 185 gr JHP bullets, so would a starting load of 7.5grs of PP be too much?

I contacted Barnes, and they havent even thought of a load using the 160 gr bullets in the 45 ACP, even though Corbon does use it in one of their loadings, "Compact Gun Load" I think is what they call it.

Thanks ahead of time guys...

Rock on!

Brad L.

 

[Bullseye Shooter]

This website ([url]http://www.handloads.org/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=45+ACP&Weight=185&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source[/URL]=) shows a starting load of 7.7 grains of PP with a 185 grain JHP. Since you're starting with a lighter bullet, your guess of 7.5 grains should be okay. If you were starting with a heavier bullet than the 185 grain JHP, I would have told you to back off, but since it's lighter, it should not be a problem.

 

[BurkGlocker]

This website ([URL="http://www.handloads.org/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=45+ACP&Weight=185&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source"][URL]http://www.handloads.org/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=45+ACP&Weight=185&type=Handgun&Order=Powder&Source[/URL][/URL]=) shows a starting load of 7.7 grains of PP with a 185 grain JHP. Since you're starting with a lighter bullet, your guess of 7.5 grains should be okay. If you were starting with a heavier bullet than the 185 grain JHP, I would have told you to back off, but since it's lighter, it should not be a problem.

Yes, they are lighter, but the TAC-XP's are solid copper, meaning that the bearing surface will be longer than a conventional bullet of the same weight. The guy from Barnes said that they might be as long as a 185 grainer, but to start there, but I would like to hear from other reloaders before venturing out and blowing up my Glock. I really like my Glock, and wouldnt want it to be in pieces, even with what I think is a good starting load, just really looking for affirmation in my choice more than anything else.

I use Handloads.com for alot of my loading data, but they are skimps when it comes to Barnes reload info. The only other site that I have found that has info on the Barnes XPB (assuming that the TAC-XP's are the same or closely related bullet) utilizing Power Pistol as a propellant is LoadData.com but they require a $30 membership fee per year, and I dont see why I should spend that much money on that one piece of info when I am already loading up $40 worth of bullets. I have already checked the Barnes Reloading Manual and they dont even have Power Pistol listed for any of their loadings. I will check and see though. Just wish me luck as I venture into the unknown, for myself, and apparently for Barnes as well...

 

[TxSgt1911]

Loaddata.com lists the max load for the 185 XPB at 8 grains of Power Pistol, at 1.230 OAL. Hope this helps.

 

[BurkGlocker]

Thanks TxSgt1911! I really do appreciate it!

Rock on!

Brad L.

 

[Texas42]

those barns bullets are expensive!!! They sure look cool though.

 

[BurkGlocker]

I actually got 40 of them for $28 and with shipping was below $35. I got a damned good deal on them.

 

[BurkGlocker]

I got the bullets in, and after a LONG week in McAllen, I finally got home to see my 'babies'... and the wife and kids...

I compared them to an unexpanded 230 gr Ranger T-Series bullet, and they are the same exact length. They are going to be a +P loading, so I'm going to start at 7.5 grains of PP, but I think that I can really push 'em safely with up to 8 grains.

And man, I also have to mention the GAPING maw these things have on them, and DEEP. They're going to be some nasty buggers...

Rock on!

Brad L.

and P.S. before you ask about the unexpanded T-Series bullet, it was also shot through 10-layers of denim and was all clogged up.

 

[Texas42]

Are you gonna use them for hunting or defense?

Either way, please post any testing pictures if you have any. : )

 

[BurkGlocker]

Are you gonna use them for hunting or defense?

Either way, please post any testing pictures if you have any. : )

Going to use them for defense. I love the light, fast bullets, especially in a larger caliber.

But here is a pic that I took a little bit ago, and please forgive me for quality, but the camera is no longer in my possession.

It absolutely blew the first two jugs apart and split the third and fourth before coming to rest on my 'denim in a box' backstop. Bullet measured in at .820" in diameter. Primer was as expected for a +P load, similar to my Winchester Ranger +P primers after shooting them. Used 7.7 grs of Power Pistol, and to tell you the truth, I think that is going to be plenty. I also used nickle-plated Win +P brass and WLP primers.

Rock on!

Brad L.

 

[TxSgt1911]

Were you able to chronograph your loads? I've been loading the Hornady 185 XTP in front of 8.5 grns. of PP for a velocity of 1045 FPS. This load shows no signs of over pressure so I could go even hotter, but I have to change my springs first. My Springfield 1911-A1 was ejecting about 10' - 11' with the factory weight springs.

 

[BurkGlocker]

Unfortunately I dont have access to a chrony, but would definately like to see what kind of velocity I am achieving with this load. I am looking for at least 1200 fps with this load, but with the bullet having such a large bearing surface, comprable to a 230 gr bullet, I am being frugal with my powder charges at this point. Right now, I believe it is probably pushing 1150 fps, but to tell you the truth, I am pretty happy with the results thus far.

Rock on!

Brad L.