Clays Or Universal Clays

[pmd]

I see some guys are using Clays with 180 JHPs.

Most seem to be using "Universal Clays" and some others use "Clays".

I've read that "Clays" has potential pressure problems -

Looking to make major PF w/ 180 JHPs and 5" Ultimatch barrel and want to try an alternative to Tightgroup - would you recommend the use of Clays or Universal Clays? They are both readily available in my area.

Thanks.

Paul

[Carlos]

You wrote: "major PF w/ 180 JHPs"

USPSA or IPSC major? I assume 165 pf.

" 5" Ultimatch barrel"

So you are loading for a 1911 or a 2011 that will likely tolerate loading to OAL of 1.200" or more; that extra length is very important to lower pressures with a spikey powder like straight Clays; if you load to 1.200" & are able to nearly prevent any possible chance of set-back with a Lee brand "U" or undersized die, then MAYBE i would consider using straight Clays (except on really hot days).

"and want to try an alternative to Tightgroup"

Problem with TG? I found little difference b/t TG & straight clays outdoors (indoors, TG's blast was noticeable, but not problematic).

"- would you recommend the use of Clays or Universal Clays? They are both readily available in my area."

Last time around, I think most of us agreed that U.Clays becomes dirty & a little inconsistent at lower pressures but if the OAL is "short" (i.e. the manual recommended 1.125 to 1.145" OAL) and its loaded to major, then its OK. I tried it w/ 180s & found it just OK. Seemed to kick more than TG IMHO.

What would I recommend?

1 TG

2 N320

3 U.clays if you load it short & to major

4 if you must AND you honestly know what you are doing (ie U-die) straight Clays. Go easy on the PF.

C.

[Shepard]

I've been using straight "Clays" for a couple of years including a summer in the California/Arizona desert. With an AOL of 1.2 I've had no problems, not even pressure signs. On the other hand, before I started loading long I went through 2 slides What can I say, I'm a slow learner. Anyway, I like Clays and haven't had any trouble once loaded correctly even in the desert. YMMV

Shepard

[Squishy]

I have been using straight clays for over 10 years for ipsc major 175 pf or 165 pf. I use 200 gr fmj Zero bullets. I have not had any problems with pressure or gun problems . same 40 cal S V that I started with over 10 years ago. Same slide same frame . Had to replace the barrel last year. Lugs sheared off. Had about 70,000 rds thru it.

[Harmon]

i would tend to stay away from staight clays in a major power 40..

the % of score you gain isnt worth the potential gun hazards.

i have had pretty good luck with win 231 in the 40, but its kinda dirty and it may make major one day...then a cool front come through and vel is lower than it needs to be..

if your using TG and like it, stick with that..

the good thing about Universal Clays for me is that i shoot a glock and like 200 grain bullets...Titegroup is running out of steam with the 200s...

buy a can and give it a try...your gonna use more powder, but i think its slightly cleaner..

in my opinion, Universal Clays smells better than TG