255gr 45AR Loads

[Lonestar22]

I bought a gently used RCBS 45-255-SWC. My plan is to load Auto Rim for my 625 Model 1989, for target shooting only. I’m having difficulty finding loads for cast bullets weighing 255gr. I would appreciate revolver load recommendations for this bullet.
Thanks,
Tim

[35remington]

If for target shooting you might figure on a 200 SWC with a thick front band instead, to save on lead and probably produce somewhat better accuracy in the shallow groove rifling/long jump to the forcing cone these revolvers have.

For "revolver loads" I'm guessing here......do you want reasonable velocities for the bullet weight, or low speeds?

A load of 5.5 to 6 grains Unique or Universal would work fine and not be overly stout. Same with a couple tenths more of Herco. 4.5 grains Bullseye would be nice and mild.

I'd still prefer 4.5 Bullseye and a 200 SWC to your choice of the 255 RCBS for target shooting, so pardon for beating the dead horse again.

I have a five inch 625-3, so I can relate. Also a model of 1989. Experiment with the harder bullet alloys or heat treating if skidding is excessive and accuracy poor with this heavy bullet. Lighter SWC's with thick front bands do not skid as much as the heavier bullets do, and one can get away with a softer alloy and still get accuracy.

[Lonestar22]

35remington,
I appreciate your feedback and your recommendations. I have seen the 5.5gr to 6.0gr Unique 255gr CB loads in an old Speer manual and thought I might give them a try.
You bring up a good point about the thicker front band on a 200gr vs the relatively narrow one on the 255gr. That extra width should do a better job of stabilizing the bullets travel. I have the RCBS 45-201-SWC mold in inventory, and it has been very accurate in every semi-auto I’ve loaded for. It will definitely be tested with your 4.5gr Bullseye load.
This project is turning into an interesting one with the testing of two bullet weights, powders and bullet hardness. Thanks for your thoughts and recommendations.
Tim

[StrawHat]

You might find some information in these threads.

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=82903&highlight=heavy+acp+load

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=60275

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=69324&highlight=carbine+heavy+boolits

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=7598&highlight=Lyman+454423

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=58719

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=81606

[Lonestar22]

StrawHat,
Thanks for all the links. There is plenty of info there for me to chew on.
Thanks Again,
Tim

[Michael J. Spangler]

bullseye, 231 and the likes are good for target loads.

2400 and universal clays for the hot loads