As a fun little project I put together a MEC-TEC carbine conversion on a 1911 frame. It has a 16.5" barrel and is tons of fun to play with. However, I've been shooting 230gr ammo and have noticed it's very easy to change the point of impact at 50yrds by changing grip or changing pressure exerted on the butt. I attribute this to the increased barrel time resulting from the slow ammo and long barrel.

My question is: Has anyone worked up loads for long barreled 45acp applications? I'd like to boost velocity (Decrease barrel time)without getting crazy with the chamber pressure.

I would think using a slower powder would increase velocity and take advantage of having a 16" barrel instead of a 5". However, I haven't seen much in the reloading manuals for my application.

I'm interested in any thoughts you may have and any loading advice using bullets 155grs - 200grs.

Thanks

[ 05-21-2003, 00:03: Message edited by: J.W. Blute ]

No One ?

I put a 26" .452" Shilen barrel blank on a 1903 Turkish Mauser [98].
I reamed the chamber with a straight fluted .469" reamer and a Manson
45acp throater. This chambers a loaded round that has been sized in a
Lee carbide 45acp die that is .467" and the brass springs back .002".
The throating was to 1.275" and bullets are seated to 1.275".
I get the best accuracy with 230 gr Montana Gold FMJ.

I have got a few .7" 3 shot groups at 100m.

230 gr FMJ 13 gr AA#5 very accurate
230 gr LONGSHOT 14 gr ok

HS6, Power Pistol, 3N37, and lots of other powder would probably work just as well at pressures just over 460 Rowland, I just have not tried them in the two or three trips to the range this rifle got a couple years ago when I built it.

The low noise, big holes, and low recoil make the 45acp rifle fun for all the bystanders at the range who try it.



http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting/oddsandends/graphics/l/1.jpg

[ 05-21-2003, 19:00: Message edited by: Clark ]

Consider how the stock 1911 reacts to changes in grip. I would imagine you will not be able to significantly increase the load to eliminate this problem. It will probably be a good training tool for form for you.

I think you will find that you are suffering from "interchangability of parts syndrom". To make most of the M1911 clones fit the MecTec barrel extensions, there has to be some slop in the pin holes and mating surfaces. Its this slop that causes the strike of the bullet to move around as the barrel and receiver assembly move around. It can be fixed with oversize pins and work on the slide rails but then you've defeted the purpose of the gun. Interchangability. My bet is that even as loose as it is now, it will scare the fluff off a jack rabbit's tail at 35 yards.