Understanding the .45 Long Colt Cartridge
Brief History
The story of the .45 Long Colt is intertwined with the development of the American West. Introduced by Colt in the late 1870s, it swiftly became the standard sidearm cartridge of the U.S. Army. Its popularity spread quickly, adopted by lawmen, cowboys, and civilians alike. The .45 Long Colt’s ability to deliver a significant punch, combined with the iconic Colt Single Action Army revolver, cemented its place in history.
Cartridge Dimensions and Specifications
The .45 Long Colt’s dimensions are characteristic, defining its performance. With a case length that measures approximately, and a bullet diameter typically hovering, it offers a good balance between power and manageable recoil. The rimmed design facilitates extraction in revolvers, a design characteristic of its primary use.
Popular Firearms
A plethora of firearms still utilize the .45 Long Colt today. Iconic revolvers like the Colt Single Action Army, various modern replicas and custom builds continue to be manufactured, each demanding the unique .45 Long Colt round. Furthermore, lever-action rifles chambered in .45 Long Colt are popular choices for cowboy action shooting and general target practice, extending the cartridge’s range and versatility.
Bullet Types
The choice of bullet type plays a significant role in tailoring the .45 Long Colt’s performance. Lead bullets, often used in Cowboy Action Shooting, are favored for their affordability and ease of use at lower velocities. Jacketed bullets offer greater penetration and expansion, suitable for hunting applications. Selecting the right bullet ensures optimal performance for specific uses, whether plinking at the range or tackling different types of targets.
.45 LC Load Types
The world of .45 Long Colt loading includes different styles, which can be broadly split into two main categories. Cowboy Action loads emphasize lower velocities and reduced recoil, with the goal of replicating the historical loads used. Modern loads can utilize higher pressures and, consequently, greater velocities, providing improved performance for hunting or target shooting.
Reloading Equipment and Components
Necessary Equipment
Handloading .45 Long Colt is an investment in both time and equipment. The essential tools and materials are what enable you to create your own custom ammunition.
The core of .45 Long Colt reloading is the reloading press, which is a device used for the various loading operations. Dies are essential; you will need a set to perform each step. These include a sizing die, which resizes the case back to its original dimensions; a seating die, which presses the bullet into the case; and a crimping die, which secures the bullet in the case. A powder scale, either digital or a beam type, is critical for accuracy. It’s used to precisely measure the powder charge. A powder measure itself can speed up the process. A case trimmer and chamfering tool are used to trim the cases to the appropriate length, ensuring proper bullet seating. A primer pocket cleaner ensures that the primer pocket is clean. Calipers offer precision measurements of case length, overall cartridge length, and other important measurements. A bullet puller can be invaluable for correcting mistakes or disassembling cartridges. A reloading block holds the cases securely during powder charging and bullet seating.
Components
Selecting the right components is crucial for safe and accurate reloading.
Brass
The .45 Long Colt brass case is the foundation of the cartridge. Quality brass is essential for safe reloading. Consider brass brands for durability and consistency. The brass case must be thoroughly cleaned prior to reloading. This can be done with a tumbler or by hand. The cases must then be sized to the correct specifications, trimmed to length, and deburred. These steps are essential for ensuring that the bullets seat properly and that the cartridge functions safely and accurately. Brass life is limited. Over time, brass casings can wear and become damaged. Proper handling, careful reloading practices, and inspection can extend their life, but cases eventually need to be discarded.
Primers
The primer is the tiny but powerful component that initiates the firing sequence. Proper selection of primer is very important. Most reloading manuals will provide a guide to the use of various primer types. Large pistol primers are most common for .45 Long Colt. Ensure you select the correct primer size.
Bullets
Choosing the right bullet is crucial for achieving the desired performance and accuracy. Weight is a key consideration. Heavier bullets offer increased momentum for hunting while lighter ones provide a flatter trajectory at longer distances. Bullet type is another factor. Lead bullets are a classic choice, particularly for Cowboy Action shooting, while jacketed bullets, or hollow point bullets, are best for hunting. Proper bullet selection contributes to a cartridge’s overall effectiveness.
Bullet diameter and firearm compatibility are also factors. Ensure that the bullet diameter matches the bore of your firearm to achieve accuracy and avoid barrel damage.
Powders
The correct powder is the propellant that drives the bullet. Powders designed specifically for pistol calibers, with the burn rates optimized for the .45 Long Colt, are often preferred. Powder selection is dependent on the desired application.
Powder characteristics, like the speed with which the powder burns, will impact velocity, pressure, and recoil. It’s essential to choose a powder within the established range of burn rates.
Selecting the best powder requires consideration of many factors. Consult reloading manuals to determine appropriate powder loads for various bullet weights and velocities.
The Reloading Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Reloading should always prioritize safety and follow a carefully planned process.
Safety Precautions
Always use eye protection and ear protection during the reloading process. It’s crucial to create a dedicated workspace with good lighting and ventilation, away from distractions. Handle primers and powder with care. Prevent static electricity, and store all components properly.
Step-by-step Instructions
1. Case Preparation: Case preparation is the foundation. Clean brass removes contaminants. Sizing restores the case to the proper dimensions. Trimming adjusts the case to the correct length. Deburring smooths the case mouth. Priming prepares the case for the primer.
2. Powder Charging: Weighing each powder charge, using a powder measure, ensures consistent powder loads for accuracy.
3. Bullet Seating and Crimping: Proper seating depth is important. Seating depth, the depth to which the bullet sits in the case, affects pressure and accuracy. Crimping ensures the bullet remains seated.
4. Inspection and Quality Control: Visually inspect each loaded round, paying close attention to the case, powder charge, and bullet seating. Discard any cartridges that do not meet quality standards.
Reloading Data Considerations
Reloading data is found in reloading manuals. This data is for informational purposes only, and the information provided does not constitute an endorsement.
Powder type, bullet weight, bullet type, case type, and primer type vary according to the desired purpose of the ammunition. Consult manuals for appropriate reloading data. Use caution. Do not exceed maximum loads, and always start with the minimum charge and work up, examining for signs of overpressure, like difficult extraction.
Safety and Best Practices
Always start with the minimum load data in your reloading manual and work up slowly while watching for pressure signs. Pressure signs can include flattened primers. Regularly inspect cases before and after loading. Make sure to keep your reloading equipment clean and well-maintained. Keep thorough reloading records. Use multiple reloading manuals for safe loading guidelines. Stay observant during all loading activities. Always consult reloading manuals for safe loading guidelines.
When in doubt, it is better to discard the load.
Examples of .45 Long Colt Loads
Cowboy action loads often use lead bullets at lower velocities, optimized for quick reloads.
Hunting loads with jacketed bullets at higher velocities provide improved penetration and expansion.
Conclusion
The art of reloading the .45 Long Colt is a rewarding pursuit. By understanding the cartridge, investing in the right equipment, and following safe reloading practices, you can create custom ammunition tailored to your shooting needs. The process promotes the opportunity to learn and to understand the cartridge and the firearm better. Reloading the .45 Long Colt creates a direct connection to the classic design. Always prioritize safety.
Resources
Consult reputable reloading manuals, and bullet manufacturers’ websites. Engage in reloading forums. Remember to always exercise caution and seek reliable reloading information from trusted sources.
