Reloading 45 GAP

[wlst101]

Since GAP cases are a little beefier, how many reloads can you safely expect assuming safe pressures are used? I'm using Lymans max published loads and some a bit lighter for warm-ups.

Does anyone have pics of flattend primers due to excessive pressures? Never seen one yet. Thanks!

[BigTex171]

Originally posted by wlst101
Since GAP cases are a little beefier, how many reloads can you safely expect assuming safe pressures are used? I'm using Lymans max published loads and some a bit lighter for warm-ups.

Does anyone have pics of flattend primers due to excessive pressures? Never seen one yet. Thanks!

I have heard 10 times, but I'll let one of the resident experts address it more authoritatively. ;)

[jcmios]

I do not have pictures but in working up loads over the past 2 years I have had smilies on some new and once fired GAP brass and plenty of flattened primers. On my practice brass I have at least 15 reloads with no signs of wear. These are loaded with 8.4grs od AA#5 and a Rainers 200grs FP with an OAL of 1.088". Good load, clean burning with Federal primers.

Jim

[Arc-Angel]

I use 3.9gr TITEGROUP with 200gr RN Westcoast Plated bullets and federal primers.

This is .1 Grains below the recomended from hodgdon data, this offered reduced muzzle flip and Quicker target re-engagement.

Disclaimer:
The individual assumes the risk of safe loading practices. Failure to do so or violation of any of the above warnings could result in severe personal injury (including death) or gun damage to the user or bystanders.

[BigTex171]

Originally posted by jcmios
I do not have pictures but in working up loads over the past 2 years I have had smilies on some new and once fired GAP brass and plenty of flattened primers. On my practice brass I have at least 15 reloads with no signs of wear. These are loaded with 8.4grs od AA#7 and a Rainers 200grs FP with an OAL of 1.088". Good load, clean burning with Federal primers.

Jim

15 reloads? Wow, that's awesome. Would shooting 230gr bullets make that number go down, or does only the amount of powder used affect that? Sorry if that sounds liek a stupid question - I know little about reloading and am trying to get the basics down.

[Arc-Angel]

Would shooting 230gr bullets make that number go down, or does only the amount of powder used affect that?

One is a direct result of another, when you move bullet weights up or down you also increase or reduce powder charge. wihich can impact the amount of stress placed on a case.

So Lighter bullets and less powder Could give you longer cartridge life.

[BigTex171]

Originally posted by Arc-Angel
One is a direct result of another, when you move bullet weights up or down you also increase or reduce powder charge. wihich can impact the amount of stress placed on a case.

So Lighter bullets and less powder Could give you longer cartridge life.

That makes perfect sense, thanks. If I could get 10 reloads from my cases, I would be very happy. Actually, if I had the money to get started reloading right away I would be happy. Hopefully by this winter, I'll be up and running.