I've been trying to get some successful loads together for my 450. With as much information as this site has, you'd think it would be easy. And it would be easier, probably, if I used proven loads/components. But I like to try different stuff (just an ornery streak I guess) and so haven't had much success.
So, I've tried those blem bullets from Midsouth. 300 grain JSP bullets of unknown manufacture, I posted a pic awhile back. With low to moderate loads of AA1680, they don't shoot well, 3" or so at 100 yards. Average velocity is around 1700 fps, but variation is ±100 fps. With a good taper crimp to .476. I've got a few left, as the last time out gale force winds interrupted my shoot. So I think I'll add a stab crimp to a few and see if I can get more velocity consistency. I'd love to get a good load with these as they are so cheap, relatively speaking.
I also tried the COP 225 grain solid copper. Used a mild load of Lil Gun, a few each with taper crimps and stab crimps. Great velocity, 2200 fps and not much variation with either type of crimp, ±25 fps. Lousy accuracy, though, 6" or so at 100 yd. Most of the bullets seem to be .451 or so, which may be part of it.
So, I think I'm going to have to try some of the 225 grain FTX bullets over some Lil Gun (or some factory ammo...) to see if I can generate some reasonable accuracy or if I need to start checking something besides my loading technique.
Any other thoughts on what I've done? Thanks.
Hop