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Originally Posted by Superman
Thank you Sir.
I know the regular (non-"New") Vaqueros have longer cylinders. There are .45 cartridges that will not physically fit in the cylinder of my New Vaquero. And so...I wonder if i can assume that any store-bought cartridge I can find is 'good to go' in my New Vaquero. Answer that, or just steer me to where I can find reliable data regarding pressures, both for loads and for the New Vaquero.
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You cannot make that assumption. The loads that will not physically fit into your New Vaquero cylinder exceed SAAMI specifications for length. Some manufacturers of high pressure "Ruger only" loads are reluctant to exceed that specification. Which I find interesting, because they are willing to exceed pressure specifications (SAAMI does not recognize these "Ruger only" loads, only standard pressure loads).
The Freedom Arms single action, most familiar in its .454 Casull chambering, has a "short" cylinder. This revolver is also available in .45 Colt, and is obviously capable of handling the hottest of those loads available. Many of those hot .45 Colt loads are meant for this revolver. I find that insane, since these will fit my Peacemakers as well. Pretty irresponsible, in my estimation.
So, no, I'm afraid cartridge length is not a safe indicator. I wish it was. That's how I do it - my high pressure hand loads will not fit in the cylinders of my Colts. I sleep better at night because of that.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Superman
Regarding Winchester lever guns, I know the 1892 is designed for pistol loads and others are set up for actual rifle loads. But I wonder if the stoutest .45 Colt pistol loads would be 'good enough.' I don't plan to take down elephants at 600 yards but I wonder if an 1892 would summarily dispatch any North American game animal at open sight distances.
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I would not hesitate to hunt with it at "woods" (or open sight) ranges. Hell, I have killed a number of various game animals with standard pressure loads out of my Colt revolvers. Add the velocity gained from a rifle barrel, along with the ease of shot placement, and things can't help but get even better. Yes, full sized rifle chamberings like the .45-70, or even the .30-30 offer some notable increases in "power" and range, but within about 100 yards or so? I'd be happy to carry a lever gun in .45 Colt. Remember, the old .44-40 and .38-40 firing their 200 and 180 grain bullets respectively, at about 1,300 fps, have accounted for more than their fair share of game. And the .45 Colt, with its standard 250 grain load, brings slightly more performance to the table. So, yes, absolutely.