FMJ vs. lead adjustments?

[calidefector]

I'd been looking at some recipes for .45 ACP with a 230 gr. FP using Hodgdon Universal.

I've found some loads for FMJ at 5.1-5.6 for Hornady FMJ FP (Hodgdon Online Data), 5.4 for "230 grain jacketed bullet" (Lee Modern Reloading, 2nd Ed.) , and 5.6 for Hornady FMJ FP (Lee Data Manual).

What I can't seem to find is for a 230 grain Flat Point, regardless of powder.

So, is there a change to a recipe when using the same weight/same shape bullet in lead over FMJ? If so, is there some sort of formula/percentage adjustment that can be generalized?

Also, if there is and adjustment and someone has the know-how, can someone explain the "why"? I'd like to understand what comes into play that requires an adjustment (assuming that it does.)

Thanks much!

[What Just Happened?]

230 Flat point is a very uncommon bullet profile. Heck, I use a 215 grain SWC that's usually used in 45LC rounds. FMJ loads should not be used in lead and vice-versa. Typically, lead will require less powder because it's has less friction than the copper jacket of FMJ rounds.

I would use the minimum load that you find for the normal 230 RN and start there and slowly find what load you want, watching for pressure signs and using a chrono if you have access to one.

P.S. Are your 230 FP bullets lead or FMJ?

[gunboat]

It is always a good idea to reduce any charge when first used in your weapon - A given charge for caliber/bullet weight/bullet type may not produce the same results in your weapon -- There are a multiple number of variables involved, the effect of which, can not be predicted -- Lube, bullet size, bullet configuration and bore size of your weapon are some --

[calidefector]

These are lead flat point, blue lube in the groove.

The starting load was 5.1 for the FMJ; but the similar weight round nose lead starting load is 4.5 with a max of 5.4.

With the explanation of the copper having more friction than the lead, I've no objection of starting at 4.5 grains. I'd most definitely rather error on the cautious side.

Thanks!

[anyracoon]

The other problem with lead is if you push it to fast that your barrel can lead up.

[otteray]

The other problem with lead is if you push it to fast that your barrel can lead up.

At the speed that 45 acp is plodding along at, leading should not be an issue at all; if bullet is .002" over bore size and the lead has adequate hardness.
Most commercial lead for this caliber fall in the right range, I would assume.
I use Bear Creek Supply and have no problems.

[tankerman]

230 Flat point is a very uncommon bullet profile.

Not sure I understand what you are saying.

Are you saying flat point or flat nose are uncommon? or are you saying FP/FN are uncommon in 230gr .451.454?

[tankerman]

What I can't seem to find is for a 230 grain Flat Point, regardless of powder.

Is the edge of the bullet slightly rounded or more square-ish?

[scratch]

Tim...The 230 LRN (Lead Round Nose) data will be the same as your FP. Hodgdon lists the starting load at 4.5.

[What Just Happened?]

Not sure I understand what you are saying.

Are you saying flat point or flat nose are uncommon? or are you saying FP/FN are uncommon in 230gr .451.454?

A flat point 45acp bullet weighing 230 grains is uncommon. That is why you will not find data for it. Heck, I'm curious as to where you're finding these bullets.

[NRAhighpowershooter]

I have the Oregon Trail Laser Cast manual and this is what they list for a 225gr flat point and Universal Powder

MIN 5.4gr @700fps OAL 1.205"
MAX 5.9gr @ 825fps OAL 1.205"

[gunboat]

Lyman 452423 and 452490 are pretty standard -

[What Just Happened?]

Lyman 452423 and 452490 are pretty standard -

Are those 230 grain FP bullets? By common, I mean what I've seen offered by bullet casters. I think the bullet I use looks a lot like the 452423.

[bohoki]

used to buy lots and lots of bear creek bullets but when they hit 6 cents each i started casting


i use the lee round nose tumble lube design it works in an xd that wont work with 200 swc