I am using once fired Winchester brass and a Hand Pounder Lee Loader.
Am full length resizing (with lube).
The bullets are 230 grain copper jacket with diameter of .452.
After full length resizing the ID of the brass is 0.445.
Overall case length is 1.280
Set my cartridge overall length to 1.595.
Bullets tend to slide all the way into the case.
Could use help.
Several years ago I used this same Lee Loader for my 45 Colt and had no problems. Back then I was loading cast bullets.

From your set of data points, regarding bullet OD and case ID, what you describe is impossible. A constriction of .007 will hold the bullet.

I don't disagree technically, but facts don't lie. The bullets are sliding into the case up to OAL case length (1.595 to 1.6), then the slightest pressure on end of bullets pushes it into the case.
All I can figure is that the case is so soft that it may be stretching as bullet is pressed in.
Am open to looking for any other possible reason.
Also, could I use some kind of substance (Like military cartridges use) to secure the bullets. If so, what would that substance be. I've heard about people asking if they could use nail polish.
If the cases are stretching, what would be the solution.

I had the same problem when I started loading .45 Colt in the early 70s. I was using Lyman carbide dies in a press, not a Lee loader. I think the dies were meant for .454 or larger bullets. I started just running the cases about half way into a .45 ACP carbide die after sizing in the .45 Colt die. That sized the case mouth enough that it held the bullet. It added a step to the process but is easy to do.

Thanks Dale.
I was wondering if I could o that with one of my other dies. I don't have 45ACP dies. Maybe I need to buy just the 45 ACP sizer.

CN a guy just use acp dies to reload the 45 colt?

quote:

CN a guy just use acp dies to reload the 45 colt?

That's all I've used since buying a Ruger 45 Colt/ACP with interchangeable cylinders in 1973. Works fine.

Since I don't have 45 ACP dies I looked for something similar that I have.
I found that my 308 Winchester sizing die will work. I press the case into the die only about 3/8 inch and retract. Then insert the bullet and it holds perfectly.
Excellent advice.
Thanks.

Then your measurement of either the ID or the OD, is not accurate.
It is not the brass.
You need another sizing die, no matter what it is.
Yes, you can use a 45 ACP die; it might leave a step in the brass though. I did it before I got a real 45 Colt die.
I see you fixed the issue using a rifle die; good job.

I can assure you that my measurements were accurate. My tools are annually checked against standards.
To prove my measurements, I remeasured the brass ID after using the 308 die. It measured 0.441.

Ok, 1.441; you need to recalibrate; I am just reading the numbers.
Anyway, glad you got it working.

HAHa. My fat thumb. Corrected to 0.441
Thanks

When loading for a 455 Webley I used shortened 45 Colt cases and 45ACP dies, worked a treat for all jacketed and cast bullets that I used.
The shortened 45 Colt cases for the Webley revolver were the same length as 45 ACP.