Introduction
The Allure of the Old West
The spirit of the Old West, with its dusty trails and iconic firearms, continues to captivate the imagination. The roar of a .45 Colt echoing across a shooting range isn’t just the sound of a gun; it’s a connection to a bygone era. This cartridge, a legend in its own right, remains a favorite among those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and the thrill of Cowboy Action Shooting. It’s more than a shooting sport; it’s a lifestyle, a dedication to the authenticity and the enjoyment of a simpler time.
Article Overview
This article will delve into the intricacies of crafting your own .45 Colt rounds specifically for Cowboy Action Shooting, using the time-honored tradition of black powder. We’ll explore the components, the safety protocols, and the load data necessary to create safe, accurate, and authentic loads that bring the Old West to life on the firing line.
The Enduring Legacy of the .45 Colt
The .45 Colt cartridge is a true cornerstone of American firearms history. Born in the 1870s, it quickly became synonymous with the Colt Single Action Army revolver, also known as the Peacemaker. This combination, a symbol of the Wild West, was adopted by the U.S. Army and quickly found its way into the hands of cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws alike. The cartridge itself was designed to be a versatile and powerful round.
Its design, with its large-diameter bullet and relatively low pressure, made it effective for both self-defense and hunting at close to moderate ranges. The sheer ubiquity of the .45 Colt, combined with the iconic nature of the firearms that chambered it, has ensured its enduring popularity. Today, the .45 Colt remains a sought-after cartridge, celebrated for its nostalgic appeal and the performance it delivers.
Cowboy Action Shooting and Authenticity
Cowboy Action Shooting is a unique sport that embraces the spirit of the Old West. Shooters dress in period attire, compete with vintage firearms, and participate in scenarios that simulate the challenges faced by those who lived during the frontier era. Authenticity is paramount. This extends beyond the clothing and the firearms to include the ammunition itself. Black powder is the preferred propellant, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and challenge to the shooting experience. The .45 Colt, with its historical accuracy, is a natural fit for Cowboy Action Shooting, ensuring a truly immersive and authentic experience. The slightly lower pressures of black powder compared to modern smokeless powder also allow for a more enjoyable and potentially less punishing shooting experience, which is important when you are engaging in multiple stages and shooting many rounds in competition.
Benefits of the .45 Colt for Cowboy Action
The .45 Colt also offers advantages. Its relatively mild recoil, when loaded with black powder, allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces shooter fatigue. The wide variety of available firearms, from revolvers to lever-action rifles, provides many options for participants. All of these things combine to create a sport that is exciting, engaging, and accessible to shooters of all skill levels.
Safety First: Black Powder Protocols
Black Powder Dangers
Before embarking on any reloading venture, particularly when dealing with black powder, safety must always be your top priority. Black powder is inherently dangerous and requires a heightened level of respect and caution. Improper handling can lead to serious injuries or even worse.
Black Powder Storage
Black powder is a low explosive and must be stored properly to avoid accidents. It is best kept in a cool, dry location, away from any potential ignition sources, such as sparks, open flames, or static electricity. A fire-resistant container is highly recommended. Always keep black powder securely locked up and out of reach of children.
Essential Safety Gear
Before you handle any black powder you must ensure you have appropriate safety gear. Eye protection, such as safety glasses or shooting glasses, is essential to prevent injury from any potential powder ignition. Wear gloves when handling black powder to prevent contamination and to protect your skin from any potential irritants. Make sure that you have good ventilation when loading and shooting. Do not use black powder in a poorly ventilated area.
Firearm Cleaning
Thorough cleaning of your firearm after shooting black powder is critical to its longevity and safe operation. Black powder residue is highly corrosive and can quickly damage the internal components of your firearm if not removed. Use appropriate cleaning solvents and tools designed for black powder firearms. Disassemble your firearm as directed by the manufacturer, and clean all parts meticulously. Follow all manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the use of lubricants.
Components for Cowboy Action Loads
Brass Cases
Choosing the right brass cases is a crucial first step. Quality brass will last longer and perform more reliably. When choosing brass, consider brands like Starline or Winchester, both known for their quality and durability. Before loading, inspect your brass cases carefully for any damage, such as cracks, dents, or bulges. Trim the cases to the proper length and ensure they are consistent in their overall dimensions. Case preparation and consistent case dimensions are a key element in producing accurate and safe rounds.
Primers
Primers are the ignition source for your black powder loads. The type of primer you choose and how it seats will impact the safety of your load. For black powder loads, use large pistol primers. It is important to make sure that you seat the primers fully in the primer pocket. Ensure that they are firmly seated to provide a consistent ignition of the black powder.
Bullets
The bullets you select will influence the accuracy, stopping power, and overall performance of your ammunition. Bullet weight, style, and composition must be carefully considered. For Cowboy Action Shooting, lead bullets are typically favored due to their historical authenticity and the low pressures associated with black powder. Round nose flat point (RNFP) or semi-wadcutter (SWC) bullets are common choices because they feed reliably in both revolvers and rifles. Bullet weight often falls in the grain range. Consider the twist rate of your firearm and your desired velocity when selecting a bullet weight. Proper bullet diameter is important. Sizing the bullets correctly, so they fit your barrel’s bore tightly, is essential for accuracy.
Bullet Lubrication
Bullet lubrication plays a critical role in black powder loads. Lubrication minimizes fouling in your barrel and helps maintain consistent velocities. Grease wads, applied between the powder and the bullet, are a common way to provide lubrication. Bullet lubes are essential for preventing leading in the barrel, which affects accuracy.
Black Powder Selection
Black powder is the heart of your Cowboy Action loads. The type of black powder you choose will influence the performance of your ammunition. Fine-grained powders, such as FFFg, are frequently used in revolvers because they ignite easily and burn completely. Coarser powders, such as FFg, may be used in rifles. Brands such as Goex, Swiss, and KIK are all options.
Powder Measurement
Measuring your powder charge accurately is essential for both safety and consistency. Use a quality powder measure, or a scale, to ensure your charges are precise. Proper powder measurement techniques are key.
Optional Components
Some optional components can improve the overall performance and characteristics of your loads. Fiber wads or grease wads may be placed between the powder and the bullet. They aid in sealing the gasses, preventing fouling, and improving accuracy.
Load Data for .45 Colt Cowboy Loads
Load Data Disclaimer
The heart of the matter: The data provided is for informational purposes only. The user must always proceed with caution and responsibility. Never exceed the recommended load data. Always start with a low charge and gradually increase it while monitoring for any signs of excessive pressure. Reloading involves inherent risks, and this information cannot replace proper training or the use of a reloading manual.
Black Powder and .45 Colt
Using black powder in the .45 Colt allows for many different load options. This data is a starting point.
Example Load Data
For example, when using Goex FFg, you can load a grain lead bullet. With a starting charge, you might see a muzzle velocity around feet per second. Increase this to grains of powder and see the muzzle velocity around feet per second. The more powder you use, the higher the velocity. Be sure to note the characteristics of the bullet.
For Swiss FFg, and a grain lead bullet, you can start with a charge of grains of powder, which will give you a velocity of about feet per second. A charge of grains of powder will bring your velocity up to about feet per second.
With KIK FFg, and a similar lead bullet, a starting charge of grains might result in a velocity of feet per second. With a charge of grains, a velocity of feet per second is what to expect.
Loading Instructions
Loading .45 Colt rounds with black powder requires careful steps. After prepping your brass, it is time to prime the case, and then begin loading the powder.
First, prepare your brass cases. Clean and inspect them thoroughly. Then size and trim if needed. Next, insert the primers into the primer pockets using a priming tool or a hand-held priming tool. Be sure they are fully seated.
Next, using your scale and powder measure, measure your powder charge and carefully pour it into the primed case. If using wads, place them on top of the powder before seating the bullet.
The next step is bullet seating. Use your bullet seating die to seat the bullet to the proper depth. Use the right amount of crimp, which is important to hold the bullet in place. Be sure your loads are consistent and that the cartridges pass a chamber check.
Testing and Refining Your Loads
Checking Velocity
After you have reloaded, test your rounds. Check the velocity, and then determine the accuracy.
Chronographing Importance
Chronographing is essential for measuring the muzzle velocity of your loads. Consistent velocities contribute to improved accuracy and enable you to better understand the performance of your chosen powder charge. Proper chronographs are essential.
Testing and Accuracy
The most important way to assess your reloads is to test them on the range. Set up your targets and shoot groups. Smaller groups indicate greater accuracy. Adjust your loads by making slight changes in your powder charge to fine-tune your performance.
Factors in Accuracy
Factors that influence the accuracy of your loads include bullet fit, powder charge consistency, crimping technique, and the condition of your firearm. Make sure you choose the right bullet diameter for your barrel. Consistent powder charges and consistent crimping will also improve performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crafting .45 Colt Cowboy Action loads with black powder is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to experience the thrill of the Old West and create authentic ammunition. Safety is the priority. Take the time to learn the techniques and practice them diligently. Embrace the experience of crafting rounds with a respect for the cartridge and the historical context it offers.
Resources
Remember to always consult reputable reloading manuals and websites. Explore the resources dedicated to Cowboy Action Shooting.
This process of reloading .45 Colt rounds, specifically for Cowboy Action Shooting, allows you to be a part of a living history, celebrating the legacy of the .45 Colt.
