Gold Dot short barrel vs regular.

[MLS2]

This may be better posted in the reloading section, but I figure they hang out here too.

What is the difference in the short barrel ammo vs the regular? Is it the powder? I can't see that it would be in the bullet design, but maybe. Any input would be appreciated. Velocity...pressure?

 

[BowWow]

Probably a faster burning powder to acheive maximum velocity from a short barrel. Possibly a softer lead alloy with a different hollow point to help it expand at lower velocities.

 

[wvsig]

When we redesigned the Ranger T Series of ammunition we widened the velocity window under which the round would expand to allow for the slower velocities that shorter than standard barrels produce. What this means is that if you own a standard or sub compact pistol the round should have adequate expansion. In 9mm I would recommend the 147 grain bullet as it loses a lower velocity percentage than the faster lighter bullet in shorter than normal barrels. This is because the bullet has more dwell time in the bore and has a greater opportunity to burn the powder before the bullet exits the bore. Powder that is burned outside the bore does nothing for velocity. The lighter faster bullets generally have more powder to burn and since the lighter faster bullets have less time in the bore they are not efficient burners of powder in the shorter barrels.

We increased the velocity window under which the round would expand by increasing the size of the hollowpoint, tweaking the jacket thickness and the depth of the cuts on the inside of the jacket petal segments.

Sincerely,

Paul Nowak
Senior Technical Specialist
Winchester Law Enforcement Ammunition

 

[MLS2]

So, the powder and the charge is the same and the bullet design is different?

 

[wvsig]

So, the powder and the charge is the same and the bullet design is different?

My understanding is not necessarily but that the 147 gr is the better bullet choice because of dwell time. Also that +P is wasted in a short barrel. It leaves the barrel too fast.

 

[MLS2]

wvsig, thanks. Makes sense.

Another question. What is the difference in accuracy, repetitive reliability in say .45 acp competitive fmj, hollow points, 200 gr swc's. 25 and 50 yard lines.

 

[MLS2]

Thanks wvsig.

 

[Ikarus1]

When we redesigned the Ranger T Series of ammunition we widened the velocity window under which the round would expand to allow for the slower velocities that shorter than standard barrels produce. What this means is that if you own a standard or sub compact pistol the round should have adequate expansion. In 9mm I would recommend the 147 grain bullet as it loses a lower velocity percentage than the faster lighter bullet in shorter than normal barrels. This is because the bullet has more dwell time in the bore and has a greater opportunity to burn the powder before the bullet exits the bore. Powder that is burned outside the bore does nothing for velocity. The lighter faster bullets generally have more powder to burn and since the lighter faster bullets have less time in the bore they are not efficient burners of powder in the shorter barrels.

We increased the velocity window under which the round would expand by increasing the size of the hollowpoint, tweaking the jacket thickness and the depth of the cuts on the inside of the jacket petal segments.

Sincerely,

Paul Nowak
Senior Technical Specialist
Winchester Law Enforcement Ammunition

Winchester doesn't make Gold Dots. and since you can buy the 124gr gold dot in .355 as a component, and they provide reloading data for dofferent speeds, i suspect the bullet is the same in short barrel 9mm and regular or +p

Same with the .358 gold dot

 

[wvsig]

Winchester doesn't make Gold Dots. and since you can buy the 124gr gold dot in .355 as a component, and they provide reloading data for dofferent speeds, i suspect the bullet is the same in short barrel 9mm and regular or +p

Same with the .358 gold dot

You are missing the point of the post. The point is that 147 gr bullets are better in short barreled guns because of dwell time. +P is not helpful in a short barreled gun. Some manufacturers like Winchester have designed the projectile to work at lower velocities produced by sub compacts and compacts. It is not the powder. It is all about the projectile design and the weight of the bullet. I know the OP asked about Gold Dots but the info from Winchester is on point.

 

[Bailey Boat]

Think of the old Super Vel cartridges, particularly in .357. In the event the bullet missed the muzzle flash set your clothing on fire!!