|
Colonel; check your past issues of the American Rifleman. I think it was the Nov/Dec 1997 issue that had an overview of this cartridge: history, development, and current status.
It is a darned dangerous cartridge, gaining strength from using thicker brass, while keeping external dimensions the same. This turns a safe, 'large pot' cartridge, the .45 ACP, into a 'small pot' cartridge, similar to the 9x19 and 40 S&W. Very small changes in components, loading practices, or other variables can skyrocket pressures.
One of the developers of the cartridge, whose name I have forgotten, had some handloads measured by the late Bruce Hodgdon. It turns out that they made about 50,000 cup! They had seemed somewhat hot in the gun, but the developer had this telling comment to make: 'In the 1911 pattern, sometimes the first and only sign of overpressure is a burst pistol.'
If you must use it, be aware that it is a propriety cartridge, and Ace Hindeman's son is the only legitimate source for the guns and conversion kits, although he has liscensed some other manufacturers (Springfield is one) to make guns in this caliber. Don't trust your hand to someone's illegitimate conversion. And, as always,watch your six.
Walt
|