.454 vs. .452 size

[Ken S]

I've got two Colt SAA 3rds, and use .454/250RNFP lead in them both with the shorter Schofield cases. . 6.4 to 6.5 Unique No problems. Very accurate etc.

I have to order some more bullets and am looking at the .454/ 230 grain size. I know the Colt SAA will be ok with the .454 ,
but a question about the 1911...
Can I use the .454, 230 grain in my original 1911? It has a new match barrel, so it's strong. OR.. shoud I stay with the .452 size, 230 grain

I have been using the .452 size in 230 RNFP lead in the 1911.

Thanks, Ken

[haggis]

Ken,

I'd stay with the 0.452" in the 1911. The round is higher pressure, and you would need to work up your new loads while looking closely looking for excess pressure signs. You might get away with 0.454" if you were using soft lead with sub-maximum loads. Staying with standard is less trouble.

Buck

[Ken S]

Thanks Buck, you're right, why play with something that's working.
I'll use the 452 for the 1911 and the 454 for the Colts. Ken

[smkummer]

Federal cases are tight with a .451 bullet. Remington and CBC cases sometimes are loose with a .452 bullet. A 454 would be tight in any case and may buldge a federal and winchester case so it would be difficult to chamber.

[Ken S]

Thanks...I'm going with the 452. I thought so, but needed a second (and third) opinion.