Author Topic: Heavy bullet at 1100-1200 fps in FA 454 (Read 728 times)

Onty · « **on:** November 20, 2005, 11:59:38 AM »

Can FA 454 stabilize 350-360 grains bullet at 1100-1200 fps. Anybody tried to use such bullets, any suggestion for powder and load? Whats accuracy? I was thinking of FA 83 with 7-1/2 barrel, and would prefer heavy bullet at lower velocity rather than lighter at high velocity. By going this way I was hoping to avoid gas check. Thanks.

TScottO · « **Reply #1 on:** November 20, 2005, 03:07:39 PM »

I dont have the answer to your question but if your goal is 1100-1200fps with a heavy bullet why not move up in caliber? If you want heavy bullets at modest velocities you might as well get the benefit of shooting bullets with a larger meplat hence a larger caliber.

Take Care,
Scott

Onty · « **Reply #2 on:** November 20, 2005, 05:14:21 PM »

Well, one of larger reasons is that FA 454, especially Field one, could be found for $1000-1100 used one. Very few 475 or 480. On top of that brass is easier to find, especially 45 Colt for practicing, bullet selection is from 180 to 360 gr. And 45 bore is more than enough for what I need.

MS Hitman · « **Reply #3 on:** November 21, 2005, 07:53:17 AM »

Years ago, a friend of mine tried the 405 grain bullets from Beartooth. He had to drive them with max powder charges to stabilize theose bullets in his Casull.

In my opinion, 350 -360 grain bullets are a bit heavy of optimum for .452 caliber, but that is just my opinion. You may want to try the Cast Performance website for heavy bullets and load data. They usually publish starting loads for their bullets.

msmith · « **Reply #4 on:** November 21, 2005, 04:05:17 PM »

I have to agree with Ms Hitman. I also wouldn't use 45 Colt brass in even a used 454. Besides that there isn't any reason to. The 454 can be loaded down to some milder loads for practice. I like to use Hornady's 250g non magnum XTP behind 22-24 grains of AA9. This load is very economical, recoil friendly, and works well on whitetails. I scored a six point this morning with this load (24g of AA9 @ 1480 fps). I wouldn't go much higher than that with the XTP non magnum bullet as it may erode or crack the forcing cone. Another thing, the FA 454 has a twist of 1 in 24 so velocities have to be up there somewhat to maintain stability. Good luck!