I asked ChatGPT a reloading question:

[Squib_Load]

I asked ChatGPT: In handloading 45 Colt at standard pressure for a revolver with a 3½ inch barrel and a 250 gr bullet, which powder, and how much of it, should I use to get 700 fps?

ChatGPT answered:

For .45 Colt at standard pressure from a short 3½-inch revolver, getting ~700 fps with a 250 gr bullet is very doable with several classic powders. The key is choosing a powder that burns efficiently in a short barrel without needing higher pressure.

Below are well-established, conservative combinations that typically land right around 650–725 fps from short barrels.

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Best Powder Choices for This Goal​

Trail Boss (excellent for short barrels & low velocity)​

• Charge: 5.5–6.0 grains
• Velocity: ~650–725 fps
• Why: Very forgiving, bulky, mild pressure, extremely consistent
• Notes: Fill to base-of-bullet rule applies; do NOT compress
• This is arguably the easiest and safest way to hit 700 fps.

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Unique (classic .45 Colt powder)​

• Charge: 6.5–7.0 grains
• Velocity: ~675–725 fps
• Why: Efficient burn, widely available, proven for 100+ years
• Notes: Start at 6.5 gr and work up; short barrels usually hit 700 fps before pressure rises

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Red Dot​

• Charge: 5.5–6.0 grains
• Velocity: ~675–725 fps
• Why: Fast burn, excellent in short barrels
• Notes: Spikes faster than Unique—stay conservative

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Bullseye (very efficient, very fast)​

• Charge: 5.0–5.5 grains
• Velocity: ~650–725 fps
• Why: Excellent for mild cowboy/defensive loads
• Notes: Small charge—double-check powder levels every case

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Recommended “Set-and-Forget” Loads (Most People Choose These)​

Powder	Charge	Result
Trail Boss	5.8 gr	Soft, accurate ~700 fps
Unique	6.8 gr	Traditional feel, clean burn
Red Dot	5.8 gr	Snappy but mild
Bullseye	5.2 gr	Efficient, low recoil

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Setup Details (Important)​

• Bullet: 250 gr LRN or SWC
• Primer: Standard Large Pistol
• Crimp: Firm roll crimp
• OAL: Seat to crimp groove
• Firearm: Standard-pressure revolver (NOT Ruger-only)

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Why 700 fps Is a Sweet Spot​

• Very low wear on older revolvers
• Mild recoil from short barrels
• Excellent accuracy
• Minimal blast and flash

If you want, tell me:

• Bullet type (LRN vs SWC)
• Alloy hardness
• Whether this is for cowboy shooting, general plinking, or woods carry

I can narrow this to one exact load that best matches your use case.