45 GAP same as 45 ACP Dies?

[Maksim]

I have a set of 45 GAP lee dies, and now want to load 45 acp as well. Will these dies work? or do I need another set?

I know the seating die says 45 on it... just wondering if anyone knows this info off hand.

thanks!

[XD Niner]

The Dillon and RCBS dies are the same for both. Unfortunately, the Lee dies require two different models according to their web site.

[Corey]

the only difference between the 2 are case length. the GAP is shorter.

A 2nd difference is the GAP uses small primers instead of large, but that has nothing to do with the dies.

[Maksim]

Will call Lee. Dont remember which off the top of my head... but at least 2 dies said 45ACP on them.

The Lee sets for 45acp come with the deluxe kit... which is a seperate factory crimp die... so i am thinking that is the difference in model numbers.

[Shooting Coach]

I adjusted a spare Lee 4 die set and toolhead for my 650 from 45 ACP to 45 GAP. No issues, loads great. Great round, except for chasing brass. This round does not like to be throttled down in my G37. Such loads chucks empties at my head. Heavier loads, approaching factory level, eject normally. I intend to use 185 gr Berry bullets and Titegroup.

[jmorris]

The Dillon and RCBS dies are the same for both.

Not all Dillon dies will go 45 gap. I don't remember if it was #3 or #4 but I had to do some machining on my SD, pre "B", 45 acp dies to load 45 gap.

Edited October 14, 2010 by jmorris

[RiggerJJ]

If you compare the specs of a 45ACP case and 45GAP case they are actually quite different, and not just in length. I don't remember the actual differences right now, but after looking that up I decided to get different die sets. I loaded quite a few 45GAP rounds with Lee's die set for 45GAP, which is not very expensive, and all was well. I no longer have need for the 45GAP, so sold the dies...

I would reccomend using the right tool for the job...

jj

[jmorris]

If you compare the specs of a 45ACP case and 45GAP case they are actually quite different, and not just in length

I know the extractor grove is cut slightly deeper because you don’t have to use tools to moon/demoon gap brass.

[Guy Neill]

Unless the die set is made to use for both, 45 Auto dies may not be able to work well for 45 GAP. The sizer will work, but the expander may need a shorter plug to adequately bell the shorter GAP cases. Also, the crimping with a 45 Auto die may not be able to reach the shorter GAP case unless the die is shortened.

A combo die set would not be hard, but I don't know what's currently offered from the various makers. It would be reasonable to offer the dies set as a combo from both a manufacturing and stocking standpoint.

Guy