One Week with the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP
For anyone invested in the world of .45 Colt handloading, finding a reliable, consistent projectile is paramount. I was in the market for a specific weight and profile to dial in some load development for my collection of vintage Colt Single Actions and a modern Ruger Blackhawk. The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP caught my eye due to its advertised alloy composition and reputable manufacturer name in the cast bullet space. My previous experience with lead bullets, particularly with hotter .45 Colt loads, often involved a trade-off between accuracy and excessive leading, and I was seeking to resolve that. While other options exist, like swaged bullets or softer alloys, they often come with a significantly higher price tag or different performance characteristics entirely. My initial impression upon opening the box was one of solid uniformity; the bullets had a consistent sheen and appeared free of obvious defects. There was a definite sense of practical purpose about them, a feeling that these were made for shooting, not just looking pretty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds were primarily my own backyard range setup and an extended trip to a local indoor range for more controlled chronographic data. I focused on developing loads for my .45 Colt revolvers, working from near-minimum to mid-range loads using various established powders like Hodgdon Titegroup and Alliant Unique. The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP proved remarkably easy to work with straight out of the box. No special preparation was needed beyond standard case resizing and priming.
The most notable aspect of the first few shooting sessions was the noticeable reduction in barrel leading, even with loads pushing towards the upper end of my tested spectrum. I was able to fire upwards of 50 rounds through a single revolver without any significant buildup, which was a pleasant surprise and a marked improvement over some previous cast bullet experiences. The Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) profile fed smoothly from the cylinder into the forcing cone of each firearm tested, and accuracy was consistently good, producing tight, repeatable groups at 25 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and a few hundred rounds through various .45 Colt firearms, the performance of these Magnus bullets remains impressive. Durability hasn’t been an issue in terms of the bullets themselves; they consistently hold their shape and weight. There are no visible cracks or signs of degradation, which speaks volumes about the alloy’s composition.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A standard bore snake or a quick pass with a brush and solvent are all that’s needed to keep the barrels clean. This is a significant advantage over softer lead bullets that can require more vigorous cleaning after each range session. Compared to some of the budget cast bullets I’ve used in the past, these Magnus bullets offer a superior balance of performance and ease of maintenance, without the premium cost often associated with premium cast options. They are a clear step up from the generic, unbranded alternatives I’ve sometimes resorted to out of necessity.
Breaking Down the Features of Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP
Specifications
This particular offering is the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP. The key specifications are the 250-grain weight, the Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) profile, and the precise .452-inch diameter. These bullets are manufactured from a virgin alloy comprising 91% lead, 4% tin, and 5% antimony. This alloy is specifically designed for enhanced hardness, allowing for velocities up to 1200 FPS with minimal leading issues in most handguns.
The .452-inch diameter is crucial for achieving a good seal in the bore of .45 Colt firearms, which often have slightly oversized bores. A proper fit means better accuracy and less gas blow-by. The 250-grain weight provides a good balance for .45 Colt, offering sufficient momentum for effective performance without being excessively heavy or difficult to manage in recoil. The RNFP profile aids in smooth feeding from a wider variety of firearms, including revolvers with shorter throats and semi-automatic actions (though primarily intended for revolvers in this caliber). The 91/4/5 alloy is a tried-and-true combination for cast bullets, providing the necessary hardness to resist deformation at higher velocities while still retaining some ductility to prevent brittleness.
Performance & Functionality
The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP performs its intended job with a high degree of competence. The primary function of these bullets is to provide a reliable projectile for handloading the .45 Colt cartridge, and they excel at this. Accuracy has been consistently good across multiple firearms, with tight groupings achievable at typical handgun distances.
The standout strength is undoubtedly the minimal barrel leading even when pushed to moderate velocities. This significantly enhances the shooting experience by reducing cleaning time and maintaining consistent accuracy shot after shot. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is that while the alloy is hard enough for 1200 FPS, extreme velocities might still induce some leading in certain firearms or with suboptimal lubrication. However, for the vast majority of typical .45 Colt loads, they meet and often exceed expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these bullets is a classic and effective one. The Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) profile is a practical choice for .45 Colt, blending the feeding reliability of a round nose with the increased bearing surface of a flat point. This flat point also aids in creating a cleaner hole in paper targets, making it easier to read targets.
Build quality is evident in the consistent sizing and lubrication. Each bullet appears to be well-lubricated, which is a significant factor in preventing leading. The uniform sheen suggests a consistent coating process. The weight and diameter are precisely as advertised, crucial for handloaders who rely on these specifications for safe and accurate ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
These cast bullets are designed for durability under the stresses of firing. The hard alloy composition is engineered to resist deformation during ignition and passage through the barrel. I have not experienced any bullet deformation issues, such as “keyholing” or tumbling, which can occur with softer alloys or improperly sized bullets.
Maintenance of the firearm after using these bullets is exceptionally easy. The advertised minimal leading means that your firearm stays cleaner for longer, extending the time between deep cleaning sessions. This is a significant advantage for anyone who shoots frequently or values a well-maintained firearm.
Accessories and Customization Options
As a component part for handloading, these bullets are not typically sold with accessories. However, their true customization comes in the handloader’s ability to select their preferred powder, primer, and case preparation. The 400 Bullet quantity per pack is a sensible amount for serious reloaders, allowing for the development of multiple loads and practice ammunition without needing to reorder too frequently. Compatibility is with standard .45 Colt reloading dies and equipment; no specialized tools are required beyond those common to most reloading benches.
Pros and Cons of Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP
Pros
- Excellent lead alloy composition (91% lead, 4% tin, 5% antimony) for superior hardness and reduced leading.
- Precise .452-inch diameter ensures a good bore seal for improved accuracy and consistency.
- 250-grain RNFP profile offers a practical weight for .45 Colt and reliable feeding.
- Remarkably minimal barrel leading even with moderate to warm loads.
- High degree of uniformity and consistency from bullet to bullet.
- 400-bullet count provides good value for handloaders.
Cons
- Not suitable for extreme high-velocity loads that might still induce some leading.
- Primarily intended for revolvers; while they feed in some autos, their primary application is in a .45 Colt revolver.
- Limited to the specific alloy and weight offered in this variant; customization is via handloading, not bullet design.
Who Should Buy Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP?
This product is an ideal choice for experienced handloaders of the .45 Colt cartridge who are seeking a high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective cast bullet. If you own .45 Colt revolvers and are looking to develop accurate, fun-to-shoot loads with minimal hassle regarding barrel cleanup, these bullets are an excellent option. They are perfect for range shooting, cowboy action shooting, and general recreational plinking where consistent performance is valued.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals looking for jacketed bullets for hunting large game or those who are brand new to reloading and might be intimidated by working with cast projectiles (though these are very forgiving). It’s also not the best choice if you are consistently pushing velocities far beyond 1200 FPS in a .45 Colt, as other bullet types might be more suited for extreme performance demands. For optimal use, ensure your firearm’s bore slugging and chamber dimensions are compatible with a .452-inch bullet.
Conclusion on Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP
The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .45 Colt .452in 250 gr RNFP represents a superb value for any serious .45 Colt handloader. They deliver on their promise of reduced leading and consistent accuracy, making the reloading and shooting process significantly more enjoyable. The quality of the alloy and manufacturing is evident in every round fired.
Considering the price point of $93.99 for a 400-count box, the value proposition is exceptionally strong, offering performance that rivals much more expensive options. I wholeheartedly recommend these bullets to anyone looking to refine their .45 Colt handloads. They are a testament to what a well-made cast bullet can achieve, and I’ll certainly be stocking up on them for future projects.